Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/215736
The Value of a Nap LARRY LINDQUIST, EDD ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF LEADERSHIP with me That may be a stretch for some of Think backinstructedtousyourgokindergarten days. "napthose days,significantthe rememberactivity you. Among all the largely forgotten activities of I will always when the teacher to get our mats for time!" I expect that quieting was often more cherished by the teacher than the students, but I learned the habit and value of napping. In our text, Joseph has been confronted with a tough decision. In his context, the idea of a fiancée pregnant by another man (seemingly) was scandalous and could lead to being socially ostracized or even her death! I'm sure Joseph's stress level was off the chart. I find it interesting to note that when Joseph was at the peak of his stress—in the process of deciding what to do—he evidently took a nap! God spoke to him in a dream. God provided rest, refreshment, and direction while he napped. "BUT AFTER HE HAD CONSIDERED THIS, AN ANGEL OF THE LORD APPEARED TO HIM IN A DREAM..." (MATT. 1:20) I love the title of a book authored by the late Tim Hansel—When I Relax I Feel Guilty! I can relate. Too often when I experience times of stress, the last thing I consider—yet probably the best thing for me—is to lie down and rest...sleep on it...to take a nap. Jesus did it in Mark 4 when He and the disciples got on a boat to get away from the press and stress of the crowds. The first thing Jesus did on that boat was to take a nap. Perhaps it was a practice He learned from Joseph. Christmas time comes with an amazing level of stress...Gifts, food, travel, concerts, clothes, decorations, family portraits, and so on. Add to that list the ongoing complications of job deadlines, financial pressure, unforeseen health issues, a career change or some other lifealtering decision, and you have the ingredients for a very stressful Christmas. I may have just described your life! If that is the case, may I offer a wonderful practice I learned in kindergarten and from a man named Joseph? Find a quiet place, lie down, close your eyes, pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father, and take a nap. 13 DECEMBER 18 DENVER SEMINARY CHRISTMAS 2013