The Sabbath is the final act of the creation week. Am I the only one who wondered why YHWH rested on the seventh day? He didn’t need to rest. It can be argued and supported that He did it as an example to man who would need a day of rest each week, but I don’t think that tells the whole story about the Sabbath, so I decided to dig a little deeper. I understand the idea of holiness; something set apart for YHWH. There are temples (churches), sacrifices, implements, and a nation called holy, but until now I never realized there is time which is called holy too. YHWH set parameters with the Sabbath. His children are not to work, and some specifics are given, but they aren’t extensive. Orthodox Jews have an extensive list which defines work and has been passed down through the generations. YHWH also called the Sabbath a “holy convocation” which means “a calling together.” The Sabbath is also called a “sign” and a “covenant.” There is a great deal to learn about the Sabbath, and I will continue to study; however, in summary, I have learned it is holy, a time of rest, a time to gather with other believers, a covenant between YHWH and His children and to be observed on the seventh day of the week. That’s not easy in 21st century America. There are even different interpretations about how and when to observe the Sabbath today. Observing the biblical Sabbath brings persecution from others because it’s not the accepted cultural norm. However, Paul exhorts us in Colossians 2:16 which says –
“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths”
Lord, thank you for the rest. I pray that my family will observe the Sabbath as an expression of our love for You.
