Exodus 20:3-17

If there’s one commandment we’re most immediately affected by, it has to be that fourth one: “Remember the sabbath day.”

No doubt the first commandment drives the rest of them. But it’s difficult to detect the point at which the heart has strayed from it. Sabbath rest is an immediately useful instrument, acting as a barometer of the soul. It provides a reading on our relationship with all the other commandments.

But the true wisdom of God in giving this commandment?

It’s where we become most aware of our Savior’s presence and provision.

Rest is the most concrete way we hold up our end of salvation’s offer: to surrender. In laying down our plans, armor, weapons, abilities, industriousness, etc., we create space for an encounter. It’s in that rest we hear Jesus say, “I love you, and I am with you always.”

Lord - Draw us to true sabbath rest, assuring us it’s an encounter from which we emerge with the easy yoke of Jesus, free to go and love people without risk of violating any of your soul-sustaining commands. Amen.