What exactly is Sabbath?
Sabbath has often been described as a day of rest. However, this explanation falls short in capturing the nuanced aspects of rest as described by God. We find two different explanations for why we should take a Sabbath. Both are in the Old Testament, in the Books of Exodus and Deuteronomy. Both agree that Sabbath is important and ordained by God.
The reason for taking the rest is the difference. Is it to celebrate God’s redemptive work or to celebrate the good creation?
In our gospel lesson from Luke this Sunday Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath. In doing so he breaks many laws and traditions from his time. This Sunday we will explore how those traditions developed and what we can learn from Luke today.
Text: Luke 13: 10-17
Questions for Sunday
- What is your understanding of Sabbath?
- Do you feel that modern issues like Sunday shopping interfere with Sabbath keeping?
- Why is Sabbath important to you?
Prayer for Sunday
Creating, redeeming and sustaining God, I give thanks to you for this day. In the moment of this time and in this place allow me the opportunity to be still and rest. Not because I am in need to unwind, but because in this moment I seek to honour you with my living. May all that I do reflect upon your goodness and mercy. Amen.