In the 31st chapter of the third part of "The Introduction to the Devout Life" Francis de Sales writes: "We must needs occasionally relax the mind, and the body requires some recreation also. Cassian relates (Collationes patrium, XXIV, xxi) how St. John the Evangelist was found by a certain hunter amusing himself by caressing a partridge, which sat upon his wrist. The hunter asked how a man of his mental powers could find time for so trifling an occupation. In reply, St. John asked why he did not always carry his bow strung? The man answered, 'Because, if always bent, the bow would lose its spring when really wanted.' 'Do not marvel then,' the Apostle replied, 'if I slacken my mental efforts from time to time, and recreate myself, in order to return more vigorously to contemplation.' It is a great mistake to be so strict as to grudge any recreation either to others or one's self."

In the gospel we see Jesus leading his disciples away from the crowd so they can eat, rest and recreate. In the midst of our busy labours we need to set aside that 7th day of rest. In the midst of a busy day we need to set aside some time for prayer and eating and resting and recreating or we will find ourselves too tightly strung or our spring stolen away by stress. With God's grace may we continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God whether we are labouring in the vineyard or resting and recreating so we may do God's will.