We’re here on the brink of the weekend. So, what are your plans? If you’re like me, you’ve always got more than enough to do. But here’s a novel, Sabbathy, Jesusy idea. Carve out some time this weekend to… do nothing.

Maybe this weekend doesn’t work for that. But seriously, the next time you find yourself with some unscheduled time, fight through the impulse to fill it up. And if you don’t ever find yourself with unscheduled time, then schedule yourself some unscheduled time! I realize you may not be accustomed to the peace and quiet of doing nothing. That may sound like something you’d feel guilty about, or something that would just bore you. But at times, to go deep into our souls, we need to pass through the stillness of boredom. It may take a little of that to teach us how to simply sit and be.

By the way, you can do nothing but still be present and engaged in life; indeed, that is the idea. That stilled nothingness, free of the distractions of work and emails and texts and the news and social media (yes, even that) can help us to reboot and find a clean start. That’s easier said than done, I know. That’s why it must be intentional.

I know, when time is at such a premium in our lives, that doing nothing may sound like a pipe dream - but a Sabbath nothingness today can help to fill your heart and shape your soul for the somethingness of tomorrow. As John Ortberg writes: “Whether with an entire day, or periods of time set aside every day, your soul needs rest. Not a change of scenery or a spiritual retreat — those are fine and may contribute to rest. But to remain healthy, our souls need solitude with no agenda, no distractions, no noise. If someone asks you what you did in your ‘time apart,’ the correct response should be, ‘Nothing.’ Doing nothing does wonders for the soul.”

In lieu of a daily prayer today… just take a few moments to breathe… deeply… and do nothing.