For the Blessing of Recreation
Lord God,
When you created the world, on the seventh day you established the need for rest, not for yourself, but for us. Our bodies require it, as do our mind and spirit. And, at creation, you spoke into existence a marvelous world for us to enjoy and explore. One of the ways we carry this out is through recreation.
Through recreational actives, you allow us to be renewed. Moreover, in a fallen world, where work doesn’t always bring with it the joy and pleasure that you intended, recreation can provide a healthy break from the drudgery of work. Through so many activities, some athletic and intense, others more leisurely and relaxed, we are reinvigorated. Thank you for the wealth of outdoor and indoor recreational options and for those individuals and companies who facilitate them. At the same time, help us maintain a healthy balance in our lives so that we do not idolize recreation. Do not allow our selfish pursuit of it to overshadow the use of our time, gifts, and energy in service to others.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.