W Publishing Group, January 2006

Reviewed by Susan Conatser

 

Mark Buchanan has written a timely book for an overstressed, workaholic and deeply exhausted generation. THE REST OF GOD offers convincing words to persuade readers of the emotional, mental and spiritual benefits of taking a Sabbath rest. "In a culture where busyness is a fetish and stillness is laziness, rest is sloth. But without rest, we miss the rest of God: the rest he invites us to enter more fully so that we might know him more deeply."

 

The concept of Sabbath according to Buchanan is more than leisure time and he explores the true meaning of a sacred rest. He contends it is not just taking a day off, but an attitude of the heart. Chapter titles include, Redeeming the Time, Removing the Taskmaster, Stopping Legalism and Finding Your Center. Each chapter is followed by a section of Sabbath Liturgy with suggested ways to apply the insights of a sacred rest.   

 

With beautifully written prose, Buchanan's writing style flows like poetry: "Sabbath is elixir and antidote." It is also sprinkled with a few humorous illustrations. Like the Q-tip story: whenever you have a take-this-job-and-shove-it day, go buy a rectal thermometer and read the fine print in the written material that accompanies it. "Every rectal thermometer by Q-tip is personally tested." It might help restore your perspective towards your own job.

 

THE REST OF GOD is insightful, persuasive and relevant. Buchanan has brought a fresh perspective to a practice that is a lost art---genuine stillness, and the advice he offers, comes from ancient wisdom. In this modern age of multitasking and high speed communications, with spiritually depleted souls running at a hectic pace, readers will find Mark Buchanan's voice resonates with truth. 

 

April 2006