Dear friend,

A couple years ago, I noticed a common refrain rising from people in various pockets of my life. They were tired and in deep need of rest. But they were struggling to slow down and rest in a way that was truly filling.

This led to many conversations about Sabbath, a rhythm that continually serves as an anchor in my own busy life. Many of my friends had heard and/or read about Sabbath, but they were finding it hard to practically incorporate the practice into their weekly routines.

In an effort to share what I had learned over the years, I started compiling a Google Doc filled with notes, scripture, and various Sabbath frameworks. Then I started adding worksheet-type pages to the doc, to help them put those notes into action. And so this project began.

Summer 2022, I was asked to teach a group of college students about Sabbath. And it was so fun! They really leaned in and asked incredible questions, and I could tell they were hungry for good rest. It made me want to read and research more, refining the notes I had compiled before.

At that workshop, I handed out my Google Doc worksheets and found myself wishing I could send them with something (a) more beautiful and (b) more comprehensive. So I rallied some of the smartest editors, writers, theology nerds, and graphic designers I know, and Sabbath Guide was born.

There’s a lot more to that story, but the bottom line is this: God is good. And he gives us good work. And I’m so thankful this is the work he has given me.

As I write this in my little townhouse in Austin, Texas, know that I am praying for you, friend. May God use this tool to unburden you a bit and give you some sweet rest.

I cannot end this letter without expressing my deepest gratitude to the following people:

  • Jake Riddle: My editor, mentor, and friend. Thank you for encouraging me to do this. For stretching my creativity. And for having my back in every high and low along the way.

  • Victoria Staniford: The world’s kindest and most encouraging graphic designer. This book you created is beautiful, reflecting a creator who also makes beautiful things. Thank you for all the hours you put into this design. I love it so much. And I love you so much.

  • Lindsey Lundin: A copyeditor extraordinaire! Thank you for saying “yes” to this project and for making sure I didn’t miss any oxford commas. You know I’m so bad with those.

  • Phil Adcock: The most generous and creative product photographer I know. Thank you for making all my wildest photo dreams come true. You went above and beyond for me, and I am forever grateful to have these photos as ebenezers for this season.

  • Davina Adcock, Amy Hester, Adrianne Collins, Chris Collins, Sydney Neal, and Lauren Brinkman: The test crew! Thank you for spending time with the rough draft of this resource. It is truly better because of your honest and kind feedback!

  • Dustin Curzon: My life-long boss, business coach, and brother. Thank you for gently coaxing me out of my fear of sharing my work with others. And thank you for not laughing at my horrible spreadsheets.

  • Joey Wignarajah: Everyone needs a hype man in their life, and you are mine. Thank you for dreaming bigger than I do for my work. I wouldn’t have taken this plunge without you. Gin and tonics on me soon.

  • Val Berlin: I get teary when I think of all the ways you’ve encouraged me, challenged me, grieved with me, and celebrated with me over the years. You are my safe place, and I thank God for your friendship.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

Grace and peace,
Lauren King

PS: The photo below is one I took on a Sabbath hike at Smokey Mountain National Park during a brief stint as a travel nanny. It’s probably my favorite photo I’ve ever taken. Can you believe God made this?? Holy cow.