Sharing Our Faith Together

The Importance of Holidays

by Rev Jacky Quarmby 2 July 2023

1 Thessalonians 5: 16 – 18

The holiday season is well and truly upon us.  But did you know that the word “Holiday” originally comes from the two words “HOLY DAY”.  The word “Holy” means set apart for God, so a “Holy Day” means a day set apart for God.  

It’s only since the 20th century, that ordinary working people have had holidays.  Before that many people worked on farms or worked as servants in large houses and the only time that they had off from work was for religious festivals or “holy days”.  So people would be allowed a few hours off on Sunday morning to go to church and they would often be given a day off for Mothering Sunday and for Easter Sunday. Hence, people just had time off work on “Holy Days” and that’s where we get the word “Holiday” from.

Of course, today we are lucky enough to have holidays at other times of the year as well, not just at religious festivals.  But whenever we take them – whatever we’re doing – they can still be “Holy Days”, if we remember to take a moment to thank God for all that we’ve seen and enjoyed each day.  So if you’re travelling and seeing beautiful places, wonderful scenery and amazing creatures, don’t forget to thank God for his beautiful creation.  And if you’re meeting up with friends and family or just spending time relaxing in the sunshine with a good book – remember to thank God for all the blessings that he showers upon us each day.

Paul encourages the Church at Thessalonica to “be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances”.  

Every day of our holiday (and indeed our lives) can be a “holy day”, if we just take the time to say thank you.

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Loving God,
Thank you for holidays,
For times to meet up with friends and family,
For times to explore new places and learn new things,
For times to relax and just enjoy being alive.
Lord, remind us to be thankful for all that you have given to us
And may we know that you are with us 
Wherever we are and whatever we do,
Turning every holiday into a Holy Day.
Amen