Sabbath Rest

(Photo by Eli)

We just finished watching my all-time favorite episode of "The Andy Griffith Show." The episode is called "Man In A Hurry" and is about a businessman whose car breaks down in Mayberry on a Sunday. Wanting it fixed so he can be on his way, he spends the majority of the episode frustrated at the fact that life in Mayberry shuts down on the Sabbath. He eventually comes to view the restful day of simple pleasures as a blessing, instead of a curse.

When the show was over, I told Eli that that is my favorite Andy episode. He asked me why because he doesn't think it has much of a plot. My response to him was that I love how they portray the Sabbath - as a time of rest, peace, family and simple pleasures. I explained to him the tremendous joy I've found in Sundays over the years as our family has chosen to view the day as God intended - a day of rest.

As a new Christian many years ago, I viewed keeping the Sabbath in a rather legalistic way - I spent much time and energy drawing up rules and regulations in my mind about how to keep it. If I would have been honest at the time, I would have had to admit that I viewed it as more of a curse than a blessing - yet another commandment to obey.

Fast forward many years and God in His grace has revealed to me the wisdom of keeping His command - for my good, for my joy. A day of worship and fellowship with our church family, a break from regular chores, a nap and time to read, a hike with one another or drive to see the country, time visiting with extended family and friends, a long walk down the road. What bliss! What rest for my mind, soul and body. How wise and good God was to give us the idea, the command of Sabbath rest.

Thank You, Abba, for Your infinite wisdom. Being our Perfect Creator, You know exactly that which our minds, bodies and spirits have need of. Thank You for the blessing of Sabbath rest.