The Sabbath: A Crucial Bridge
The Sabbath is the crucial bridge that connects the Ten Commandments. The fourth commandment refers to the first three commandments and the God who rests (Exodus. 20:3–7).
At the same time, the Sabbath commandment looks forward to the last six commandments that concern the neighbour (Exodus 20:12–17); rest alongside the neighbour.
Sabbath as a Practice of Inclusion
When we keep Sabbath, we practice inclusion by recognizing that everyone needs rest. It is a day for us to cease our work and reflect on what is most important in life. Keeping Sabbath also teaches us to be good stewards of our resources. We can't work 24/7 without burning out eventually. By taking a day of rest, we acknowledge that we are not in control; God is ultimately in charge.
Sabbath as a Practice of Justice & Advocacy
In a society that values productivity above all else, taking a day off can feel like an act of resistance. When we keep Sabbath, we refuse to believe that our worth is based on what we do or how much we produce. We are saying that there is more to life than what we do for a living. Everyone deserves a day of rest, regardless of their economic status. By keeping Sabbath, we are standing up for justice for all workers, including those who are paid hourly and don't have the luxury of taking days off.
Sabbath as a Practice of Transformation
The practice of the Sabbath can be transformative for both individuals and communities. For individuals, it can be a time to disconnect from the busyness of life and connect with God and loved ones. It can be an opportunity to reflect on what is truly important and let go of what is not serving us anymore. For communities, Sabbath can be a time to come together and experience a genuine connection with one another. When we take time to rest and reflect together, we create space for transformation to happen.
The Sabbath is a crucial bridge connecting God, self, neighbour, and community. It is a practice of inclusion, justice, advocacy and transformation that has the power to change us individually and collectively.
Jesus & the Sabbath
Jesus came among us as one who keeps Sabbath. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Jesus offers an alternative to the burdensome tax system of the Roman imperial imposition and the overly-codified religion: Come to me and find rest! Jesus becomes the embodiment of Sabbath rest for those who are no longer defined or committed to the system of productivity.
Pishshapmishko.
Pastor Charles Ed II Aguilar {President, Manitoba-Saskatchewan Conference}