The Sabbath

When I think of the Sabbath, the word that comes to mind is ‘rest.’ Of course, there are many ways in which we can define or think about the Sabbath. Generally, my parents made it a habit to “not work” on Sundays.  I have carried that tradition on in my own way.  

But, it can be hard, as I have a Type A personality, always doing something or at least thinking of what I need to do.  Why is it that we feel a day is not complete if we haven’t checked the jobs off of our “to do” list or that we didn’t accomplish what we set out to do?   It makes sense to consciously “take a day off!”  God did!

On the seventh day, having finished his work, God rested from all his work.  God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from his work of creation. Genesis 2:2-3

This holy day allows us to take our minds off of ourselves and everything life demands of us. That way we’re in the perfect state of mind to grow closer to God, and to more deeply experience everything he made for us. It’s a time of renewal of our souls. 

By virtue of being a member in good standing with our church, all women are members of the Presbyterian Women (PW).  This year, The Presbyterian Women’s study was called Celebrating Sabbath:  Accepting God’s Gift of Rest and Delight.  Although I didn’t participate in this, it must have been an awesome study to think of the Sabbath as a day of rest….and delight!

“Keep the Sabbath day holy.  Don’t pursue your own interests on that day, but enjoy the Sabbath and speak of it with delight as the Lord’s holy day.”  Isaiah 58:13:  

The Sabbath can be a cure for selfishness. But to Isaiah, we should enjoy this holy day.  We can claim the promise that God “…will supply every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

The Presbyterian Womens’ Fall Retreat is just around the corner.  This year, the topic of the Sabbath continues!   This is a favorite event for me, as the speaker is one of our own.  If you don’t know who that is, this will be a “delightful” surprise!

Prayer:  God, you show us the way by your actions and solidify this in your Commandments.  Help us to truly rest in your word, on your day, and in your grace.  Amen 

Sue Healy