Rest From Work: A Daily Meditation
By The Editors
In the bustling pace of life, God calls you to pause and rest from work. The author of Hebrews reminds us that Sabbath rest continues for the people of God:
“So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.”
Hebrews 4:9-10, English Standard Version
This rest is not merely a cessation from tasks, but a profound experience rooted in grace. When you accept the invitation to rest from work, you mirror the divine pattern established by God. He rested after Creation not because He needed it, but because we do.
Picture the weight of your responsibilities as a towering mountain that stretches between you and the peace God offers. It’s daunting, and at times, overwhelming. Yet, here’s the promise: this very mountain can tremble and fade away. With Christ’s redemptive work, every obstacle that blocks your path to God’s peace is dismantled. The valleys of despair are lifted, creating a straight pathway to His abiding rest. You no longer have to earn your way; you simply need to receive the gift of grace.
As you envision this transformation, allow yourself to stand at the foot of your mountain and witness it
dissolve like mist in the morning sun. In that moment, realize that Jesus is right there, inviting you to follow Him. He beckons you to lay down the burdens of anxieties and expectations so that you can truly experience rest from work. When you join Him on that path, your worries begin to evaporate, leaving space for a deeper relationship with the Father.
In this sacred rest, your spirit finds renewal. The gifts of the Holy Spirit — love, joy, peace, and patience —
blossom within you, reflecting the heart of Christ. Allow this daily meditation to become a practice. Embrace the freedom that comes from resting in God’s presence, fully assured that you will find mercy and help in your time of need. Today, take a deliberate step toward rest from work. Experience the refreshing flow of grace that rejuvenates your spirit and nourishes your soul.
God of rest, thank You for setting an example for us in the creation of the world by resting on the seventh day. Thank You for calling us to rest; for giving us this gift. Today, help me to stop trying to earn Your love or the love of those around me through my own hard work. Help me rest in Your peace and acceptance, and to meditate on Your character and Your love for me. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Thank you to Barb Wallace and Mimico PC for this article
REMINDER- Holy Communion
Please be reminded that Holy Communion will be offered by intinction this coming Sunday (October 4). All are welcome to feast at the Lord’s Table.
St. James Food Bank
Please be advised that the St. James Food Bank does not need egg cartons at this time. Please recycle your egg cartons responsibly. You will be advised when there is again a need for used egg cartons. Thank you all for supporting the SJFB.
Scripture Readers
Please be advised that a printed copy of the psalms and the scriptures that are to be read on any given Sunday will be placed on the lectern for every Sunday worship service. It has come to our attention that some of our dear readers do not have the ability to make a copy of the readings that Halyna sends out every week. She will now be making a single copy which will be in place in case a reader is not able to have their own printed copy.
This will, hopefully, prevent issues of reading the wrong scripture or the wrong version of the scripture. The printed version is exactly what appears on the screen so that everyone is on the same page!
Bible Study Dates
Please take notes of the remaining dates that the Bible Study will occur.
Oct. 6; Oct. 20; Oct 27; Nov. 17; Nov. 24
Kento’s New Musical!!
Kento has created a new musical entitled REIMU which is a modern reimagining of the Japanese folk legend, Snow Woman. The world premiere will take place on Friday, October 16 (evening) and Sunday, October 18 (matinee) at the Array Space Studio (155 Walnut Avenue). Here is the link for more information. The production is endeavouring to raise funds through a GOFUNDME page. That information is also in the link that I have provided.
Well done, Kento. We, at Graceview are so proud of all you have accomplished.
https://www.hibikiproject.org/reimu-hp
NB. A third performance has now been added on Sunday, October 18 at 8:00 PM.
A Taste of Italy Dinner
Outreach plans to host a dinner on Friday, October 16 th at 6 pm in the downstairs hall. It will feature an Italian themed dinner and will be prepared for us by Chef Keith and the students in the culinary program at Thistletown Collegiate. Ticket prices are $30 and all proceeds from the dinner will go to the Thistletown Euro Trip to Italy which will take place during the 2027 March Break. Please save this date on your calendar! Tickets can be purchased from Jean Ross, after service.
Common Scents
Please be advised that our church has a scent-free protocol. It seems that some of our dear parishioners feel unwell due to heavy floral smells. Please be considerate of those in our congregation who are affected by strong smells and odors and refrain from perfumes or colognes when coming to worship on Sunday mornings.
Thank you one and all.