Shabbat Shalom! It means, Sabbath Peace. Today the Sabbath began at 4:32PM, the time of sunset and ends tomorrow at sundown. It was a gorgeous sunset! Simultaneously a full moon was rising. I find such a sense of peace settling in upon me. This is what I am coming to experience every Sabbath, or Shabbat.
Growing up in the church I always thought the Sabbath was on Sunday because that's when we went to church. And the ten commandments tell us to "Honor the Sabbath and keep it holy (set apart)." As an adult I continued following that idea- that's when we would attend church with our children. But honestly, that's about all I did to set it apart. There might have been fun family activities or gatherings but also plenty of projects or other things to get done. I certainly didn't rest much, that's for sure.
What I am learning is that the Sabbath is not only to be set apart unto the Lord but also a time for me to stop, to rest, to refrain from work and doing my own thing. It is also for spending time with your family. I also am learning that the Sabbath is on the 7th day (Saturday) and has been since the creation of the world. (See Genesis 2:2,3)
Since I have been keeping the Sabbath, it has been such a blessing. I am so sad to see it come to an end and really look forward to this special day every week. When I rest, and rest in the Lord, I am so refreshed. It forces me to stop and just be in His presence.
From a woman's perspective, the Sabbath is a very special, sweet gift. It gives me permission to rest and not be constantly "doing". Psalm 34:8 comes to mind:
"Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!"
Shabbat Shalom my friends!
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