Scripture: Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy (Exodus 20:8 NLT).
My father was a workaholic who started attending church and reading his Bible in his seventies. His work habits had become so ingrained, that he read the scripture from his old perspective. One day, he informed us that most people break the fourth commandment. “They don’t work the first six days!”
The Pharisees and scribes made so many Sabbath rules, that they laid an impossible burden on the Jews of the first century. Today, we Christians have tossed aside this commandment or become much too casual in our observance. No one can read the prophecies of the Old Testament without realizing the importance God places on His Sabbath. The Jews’ failure to keep this day holy is always listed among the causes of His wrath and their destruction.
A Torah-observant Jew tries very hard to keep this commandment. Their families worship together every Saturday, from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Candles are lit at the Friday evening meal to indicate the beginning of the holy day, Shabbat. They will then avoid driving, biking, or any other device-driven means of transportation for the next twenty-four hours. They should walk to the synagogue but must limit their steps. Many turn off their cell phones and computers. No negative conversation takes place during this time. It is to be a day of rest and peace.
After synagogue, the Jewish families enjoy a meal prepared overnight in a slow cooker. They spend the afternoon learning the Torah, enjoying family company, visiting with friends, and reading to their children. The day concludes with another special meal to savor the last peaceful moments of Shabbat.
The early Christians were unable to worship at the Temple or synagogues on Saturday. They began celebrating the first day of the week, when Christ Jesus arose, as the Lord’s Day (1 Corinthians 16:1–2; Acts 20:7).
Many Christians believe we are no longer required to follow this commandment. St. Paul’s words in Romans 14:5–6 indicate that every day is alike, none holier than another. But his words also tell us to choose one day of the week to worship God. For many, Sunday is a day of work. Pastors and other church workers are busier that day than any other. Medical staff must be available for the sick. Restaurant workers serve our meals. Each of these must choose another day of rest.
But I think we can learn from the Jewish people to keep our chosen rest day holy. We can study the Bible, spend quality time with our families, and worship God by enjoying His creation. With a bit of preparation and commitment, our day of rest can be a day of peace that truly refreshes us. We can…
- Personally attend our church’s worship service. If not possible, listen online.
- Eat out or prepare a meal the day before, so we do not have to cook.
- Turn off our televisions and computer newscasts. On this day, we can resolve to give God our concerns about national affairs and politics.
- Play no video games or indulge in other solitary activities. Make this a family day. Keep all conversations uplifting and encouraging.
- Rest freely in God’s love. Let our bodies and minds relax and refresh.
- Spend quality time with our family and friends. Watch or play games together. Call and chat with distant loved ones.
- If we have children, read and play with them.
- Go for a walk and breathe in the beauty of God’s creation.
This short study of the fourth commandment has convicted my own heart. To observe the Sabbath—my one holy day of the week—will necessitate a radical change in my weekly routine. I will have to work a little harder the first six days and not use Sunday to finish tasks. But Jesus said the Sabbath was made to benefit man (Mark 2:27). I believe a deeper observance will benefit me, and I invite you to consider how it might benefit you, as well.
Prayer: Father, we have broken Your commandments. But through the shed blood of Jesus, we can ask for forgiveness and transformation. Help us to love and honor You more deeply and find therein Your blessings. In Jesus’ name. Amen.