4.1.3 Sabbath
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works] just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience,” (Hebrews 4:9-11).Â
Even God rested for a day after the creation of the earth (Gen 2:2). The chances are not likely because He needed it, but to give us an example and to emphasize the importance of a balanced life. It is fascinating that man – created on the 6th day – experiences his first day on earth in God’s rest, on the Sabbath.Â
Unfortunately, many Christians lack an understanding of this value. According to Jewish understanding, we practice on the Sabbath “eternity, already here in this world. We look ahead to that day at the end of our lives when we will put all our work out of our hands, rest, enjoy and see the glory of God in all its fullness,” (Emotionally Healthy Guide by Peter Scazzero). The observance of the Sabbath is not an option, but a clear commandment in the Old Testament (Exodus 2:8; Deut. 5:12). In the New Testament we read about Jesus and the apostles keeping the Sabbath according to the Law (Mt 12:12; Lk 4:16; Acts 13:14).Â
Why is the Sabbath a treasure (according to Scazzero)?
- Central spiritual disciplineÂ
- “Spiritual disciplines do not save us, but if we want to grow in faith, they are indispensable” (Peter Scazzero).
- “The Sabbath was created for the sake of man and not man for the sake of the Sabbath” (Mk 2:27).
- Sabbath defeats the powers and principalities that define us by our work.
- It is not our performance that brings success, but God’s power.
- People are important no matter what they do.
- Sabbath as a sign
- We give control to God.
- We enjoy life and get new perspectives about our routines and challenges.
- Place of receiving revelation
- Sometimes we need to come to rest so that God can speak to us
- Wells of love, joy, peace, patience and friendliness are replenished
- The most important task as a Christian is to trust Jesus