Reference

Genesis 2:1-3
Big Idea: The practice of Sabbath is a day of rest by which we cultivate a spirit of restfulness in all of life.
Application: This week, work to stop and spend time with God.
  • Start by picking a time to stop and Sabbath.
    • The Christian Sabbath on Sunday, which is best for most of us since it’s also our day of worship.
    • The traditional Sabbath from sundown on Friday night to the same time on Saturday.
    • The midweek Sabbath for those with nontraditional work schedules.
  • Pick a beginning and ending ritual.
    • In a traditional Sabbath ceremony, called the Kiddush, you begin by lighting candles, praying, and eating a Sabbath meal with your family and community.
    • And you end by praying and sharing the highlight of your Sabbath.
    • You can do exactly that, or you can let Sunday worship with your church mark the start, or you can get creative–start with a picnic, bonfire, or hot bath.
    • Let your creativity guide you.
  • Pick 1-3 Sabbath activities to enter into the spirit of Sabbath.
    • If you read the wider Sabbath literature, some of which is as old as the New Testament itself, you discover there are 12 common activities that fill up a traditional Sabbath.
    • Lighting the candles
    • Blessing the children
    • Eating a Sabbath meal
    • Expressing gratitude
    • Singing
    • Worshiping with your church
    • Walking
    • Napping
    • Share a time of intimacy with your spouse
    • Reading, especially Scripture.
    • Spending time alone with God.
    • Spending time with family and friends in conversation and celebration
    • This is not a “to-do list,” but more like 12 best practices that you are invited to grow into over time as your heart desires.