| About Sabbath Sunday |

On Sunday, December 28, FCC will pause our regular in-person and online services and invite everyone who calls FCC home to participate in Sabbath Sunday, a day set apart to intentionally rest in the Lord.

This is not a day off from God, but a day to experience Him in a different way. As we move out of the Christmas season, where we have celebrated Jesus as the Light of the World, and continue walking through 1st John, Sabbath Sunday gives us space to slow down, abide in Him, and walk in His light.

Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him. — Psalm 62:1

Sabbath is a biblical gift, rooted in the rhythm of creation. In Genesis 2:2–3, God rested. Not because He was tired or needed to, but to model a rhythm of trust and dependence for us to replicate. Jesus later reminded us in Mark 2:27, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”

As a service-focused church, we joyfully pour ourselves out. Each week, more than 200 volunteer roles are filled to make our gatherings possible. Sabbath Sunday is a gift to our staff and volunteers and an invitation to all of us, to remember that God sustains His Church, not our own constant activity.

We want to remember that rest isn’t a reward for faithfulness; rest is part of faithfulness.

We sat down with Pastor Darin, Pastor Tommy, and Ben Krause, one of our elders, for a deeper conversation about Sabbath Sunday. You can watch that video below or find the audio on Spotify.

| Sabbath Sunday Guide |

Sabbath will look different for each person and family. There is no “right” way. Choose a few of the following practices to help you slow down and rest in God’s presence.

Pray

Open your sabbath day in prayer, intentionally seeking the presence of God as you rest, refocus, reconnect, and recalibrate today.

Read

Spend time in God’s Word. Consider the following passages, or choose your own.
  • Matthew 11:28-30 
  • Luke 10:38-42
  • Colossians 3:12-17 
  • Psalm 23 
  • Psalm 103:1-12

Reflect

Spend some time in reflection.
  • What are some ways you have experienced God this year? How have you seen His faithfulness?
  • What might He be inviting you to surrender? Is He calling you to something new? How will you grow in your walk this year?

Connect

Spend some time connecting with God:
  • through His creation by spending time outdoors
  • by enjoying the fellowship of other believers
  • through unhurried prayer and meditation
  • by listening to worship music
  • by seeking silence and solitude

Activities for Sabbath

  • disconnect from screens and media
  • listen to worship music
  • take communion together
  • study scripture using the SOAP method
  • pray for the members of your family by name
  • take a walk or other outdoor activity
  • be creative, journal or do an art project
  • enjoy a favorite meal or treat
  • make a list of things you’re grateful for
  • take a nap or rest together
  • enjoy Gospel-centered movies or books
“Sabbath isn’t about resting perfectly; it’s about resting in the One who is perfect.”
- Shelley Miller

| Sabbath For Families |

A Note From Miss Jen

The new year is just around the corner. Today we gather not in our church building, but in our homes. As families who love and follow Jesus, our community at church is an important part of our journey, but our rhythm and routines can become packed if we don't carve out space for rest.

Creating time to rest and renew is an act of worship. We can invest in moments with our family to read God’s Word, sing songs of praise together, eat a favorite meal around the table, go for a walk in God’s creation, or create drawings or journaling to share what God is doing in our lives. By taking a break from digital distractions, resting physically, and connecting relationally, we can honor God together or individually with a day of rest, renewal, and reflection.

Study Scripture with the SOAP Method

Beyond the suggestions mentioned, using the SOAP method is a great place to begin when studying God’s Word at home. We have been working on this in Kids World for the last several months, but this isn't just for kids!

Download our SOAP page below or make your own and try it out using Matthew 11:28 (NIrV): "Come to me, all you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads. I will give you rest."

Additional Resources for Families

Check out these resources for families and kids of all ages!

Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon
Polygon