“Observe the Sabbath by keeping it holy.” (Deuteronomy 5:12 NIV)
“Sabbath was designed to shape our lives as liberated people… You are not a doing machine, but a deeply loved son or daughter.” (Daily Office)
Our kids were home this weekend. Both of them, at the same time. We honored our Sunday commitments and then the world stopped for a full twenty-four hours while we simply enjoyed each other’s company. There was nothing on the schedule and the weather was lovely. We went on walks and grilled out and sat around a bonfire with s’mores. We ate family favorite foods like macaroni and cheese and meatloaf. And it was good.
The Israelite priests had crafted Sabbath into a burden by legislation and should-nots, but maybe the heart of Sabbath is less about legalities and more about fellowship? Maybe it looks like changing our pace for twenty-four hours and being loved on as God’s kids? Maybe it’s a set aside day to revel in relationship? I can tell you for sure, by the time Monday came and our kids bundled back into cars to go their respective directions, they both felt seen and loved and full enough to set out into another week of adult life.
What about us? Is the Sabbath principle strong enough in our story to feel the reset? Do we push off from the weekend feeling full and sure of our position as beloved son or daughter? If not, perhaps we are doing it wrong and it’s time for a re-evaluation of our Sabbath rest.
“Six days you shall labor and do your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 5:13-14a NIV)
Lord, forgive us for rushing past Sabbath. Parents of adult children get it; we understand Your longing for rest together. We see how this Sabbath principle carves out room for relationship. Help us prioritize it. May we guard out time together and treasure the Sabbath opportunities as gold. Thank You for desiring to meet with, for including us in Your family as a beloved child of God. Amen.