How are you readers?
I hope you are well :)
It has been a long time, almost two weeks, I have not written a post on my blog. To be honest, I got a lot of projects this semester, even I got migraine (again) as a "side effect" of those time-consuming projects. Lol. I also struggled with my spiritual walk with God lately. Hopefully, the upcoming blog will be telling you about my struggles.
Today's story or topic is about Sabbath Day. Sabbath or Sunday (Saturday at that time) is a unique day because it is fixed holiday for almost all people, isn't it? But, do you know exactly the truth behind this unique or special day? If no, let us see the great mystery God wants you to know clearly.
First of all, you may wonder why I chose this unique topic. Well, I got this topic when I had my practical exam as a Sunday school teacher in my church. I found this topic is so interesting to me. I do hope and believe that this topic will also be interesting, and it can enhance your understanding about the true meaning of Sabbath Day.
Sabbath simply means "rest". Do you think that Sabbath or Sunday is a rest day? Do think that Sunday is a day to sleep or do nothing?
However, if you look carefully on the original translation (Hebrew language); the verb shâbath denotes ‘rest,’ not in the positive sense of relaxation or refreshment, which is nûaḥ, but in the negative sense of cessation from work or activity.
"Remember and Keep the Sabbath Holy"
Exodus 20:8
As you can see, God includes this commandment as one of "Ten Commandments". It simply means that this commandment is very crucial and important.
Moreover, if you see the place or the order of this commandment (fourth commandment); God did not put it unintentionally on the fourth. Clearly, it is in the middle of "Ten Commandments", whereby God wants His people to prioritize Him by coming to church (God), worshipping Him, and so on, and concurrently God wants His people love their neighbours by doing good things (Man).
God also sets an example how we should behave towards Sabbath Day. On Matthew 12, God shows that doing good things on Sabbath is very allowed. At that time, Pharisees created many rules to limit the true meaning of Sabbath Day; while Jesus justifies and clarifies it.
There are plenty of stories about what God implies on Sabbath Day from Old Testament (Creation Day), Prophets, and all the way to New Testament. I will not share all the stories, but you can check it as your references.
The main of today's message will refer back again to what has been told on Exodus 20:8
"Remember and Keep The Sabbath Holy"
Sabbath is indeed a special day. God gives you a "independent" day to take a "rest". As what God has exemplified, God wants you to love Him and to love your neighbours (Golden Rule).
Let us have a brand new perspective of Sabbath Day.
Let us response this "free" day by worshipping Him, having a great fellowship with congregation, and know Him deeper. It is only one day out of seven days. It is only 24 or less hours out of 168 hours.
Let us be joyful and grateful for this "freely-given" day.
God created Sabbath for you and me to refresh your soul and mind with His fresh anointings.
These are some songs about God's special day:
1. Today Is The Day - Lincoln Brewster (English)
2. Hari Ini Harinya Tuhan (It's a Sunday school song)
Have a nice day!
God bless!
Brian Bernadi
