In Exodus Chapter 20 we find The Ten Commandments. I’ve been considering the importance of the fourth commandment as I’ve read the book, “Rhythms of Rest” by Shelly Miller ©.
Exodus 20, verse 8 says, “Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” Practicing Sabbath isn’t new to me. For several years, I have skipped checking social media and emails on Sunday and we eat a simple lunch rather than cooking.
Reading further in Exodus 20, verses 9-11 describe a day “dedicated to the Lord your God” and “in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day…”
Don’t get me wrong, I am not in the habit of following the Old Testament laws to the letter. Jesus came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. I believe honoring the Lord’s Day is worthwhile, by that I mean Sunday rather than the Jewish practice of Friday night through Saturday night.
In reading Miller’s book, I’ve gained insight into making it more of a day of true rest without feeling duty-bound by it. For example, she describes planning meal preparation for Saturday so that no cooking is needed on Sunday. No washing of dishes, which I appreciated getting a break from last Sunday. Most of all, she emphasizes finding time for listening to the Lord and reflecting on His words. She says it has been found that sabbath and optimum health are linked. I’m looking forward to making Sundays dedicated to the Lord by attending church followed by resting in a spiritually attentive way and/or spending time with friends, doing an activity I find refreshing such as biking, etc. My sabbath since choosing to be more intentional has felt peaceful and quiet. I’ll update you after I settle into a new routine of rest.
A Goldilocks Life 