As the warmth of summer envelops us and the days grow longer, many of us dream of taking a break from our routines. However, the demands of work, family, and ministry often make extended vacations challenging. What if we created a rhythm of “mini vacations” – and a bit of the lake or the beach comes right to us? Recently, Carey Nieuwhof, pastor, author, and leadership podcaster, introduced a simple yet profound concept: the “two-hour vacation.” This idea encourages us to find moments of rest and renewal even in the midst of our busiest seasons. You might ask, “How is this possible?” Read more for the inside scoop . . . 

Nieuwhof’s “two-hour vacation” is about intentionally setting aside a couple of hours to disconnect from daily stresses and engage in activities that refresh and rejuvenate our spirits. Unlike traditional vacations, which require extensive planning and time away from responsibilities, this approach allows us to find pockets of rest within our regular schedules. It’s a practical way to embrace rest and enjoy the simple pleasures that can often be overlooked. 

Biblical Foundations of Rest 

Scripture consistently emphasizes the importance of rest. From the Sabbath commandment in Exodus 20:8-11 to Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, we see God’s desire for His people to experience rest. The Sabbath was instituted not just as a day off but as a holy pause—a time to reconnect with God, with family, and with oneself. Jesus’ invitation to the weary and burdened underscores the significance of finding rest in Him, promising that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. 

The two-hour vacation can be seen as a modern application of these sacred rhythms. By creating intentional breaks in our day, we honor God’s design for our well-being and acknowledge our need for periodic rest. 

Practical Steps to Implementing a Two-Hour Vacation

1. Schedule It

Just as you would schedule an important meeting, block off two hours on your calendar for your mini-vacation. Treat it with the same level of commitment. Remember that it’s a sacred time not to be disrupted. 

2. Disconnect

Use this time to unplug from technology. Turn off your phone, step away from your computer, and resist the urge to check emails or social media. Personally, I turn off social media notifications, for they can be very distracting. (Because of so many distractions, I no longer use my phone as a tool during my devotional time.) 

3. Engage in Refreshing Activities

Choose activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could be a walk in nature, reading a book, gardening, visiting a local museum, or simply sitting quietly in prayer and reflection. 

4. Be Present

Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Let go of worries about the past or future, and focus on the here and now. 

5. Invite Others

Consider inviting a family member or friend to join you. Sharing this time with a loved one can enhance the experience and strengthen relationships. 

The Impact on Ministry and Personal Well-Being 

For those of us in ministry, the concept of the two-hour vacation is particularly valuable. Pastoral work often involves constant demands and emotional labor. By taking these mini-vacations, we can prevent burnout, maintain our spiritual vitality, and model healthy rhythms of work and rest for our congregations. 

Incorporating regular breaks can also improve our effectiveness. When we return to our tasks refreshed, we are more creative, focused, and energized. Our personal well-being directly impacts our ability to serve others, making these moments of rest an investment in both our lives and our ministries. 

I hope you will block off a couple of hours and give it a try! By carving out intentional time for rest and renewal, we can experience the refreshment that God intends for us. Let this summer be marked not just by busyness and activity, but by moments of stillness, joy, and connection. In doing so, we honor God, nurture our souls, and enhance our ability to serve others with grace and love. 

Remember, when crowds clamored and when there were more demands than hours to meet them, “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16) May you and I do as Jesus did.