A Rule of Seven

It’s been 21 weeks since we had some time to retreat; really get away and recharge. I'm looking forward to the opportunity soon.

One of the accomplishments of the labor movement was the five-day work week, an eight-hour day, and occasional vacations. Such ideas were dismissed as a slothful expansion of a leisure class; criticized as an affront to the work ethic (Calvin’s conviction that work was responsible stewardship of God’s gifts vested in us).

While taking management classes at B.U. (part of my sociology studies), I was quite taken by research that showed working longer than seven hours at a stretch generated declining returns. Accidents increased. Errors were more prevalent. People worked slower to compensate for exhaustion.

Was Jesus a first vice president of human resources? He emphasized what I call the “rule-of-seven.” It’s the rhythm of creation which, if we flow with, brings about a balanced and productive life. Seven days of creation. Seventh-day Sabbath. Seven-time-seven year of jubilee. And this little seven-hour work schedule tidbit from business management. Jesus was never without passion for his work, but he also knew the time on Mount Tiberius, a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee, a trip to Caesarea Philippi we part of being effective.

It pays to pattern ourselves with rhythms of work and rest. Work hard, but don’t forget to honor the Sabbath. Plan a retreat. Drink some coffee. Talk with God.