The Spirit of the Sabbath #1606

The Spirit of the Sabbath (The Gift of Sabbath) The Sabbath, a gift from God to man, A day to lay down burdens, to understand The will of God fulfilled, a holy plan, A new beginning graced by His command. A spirit of Exodus, a daily rite, From Egypt's chains, we take our flight, Never again in bondage, we unite, In Sabbath's spirit, find our guiding light. Not just for feasting, rest, or fun, But a leap forward when the day is done, A life with Sabbath's spirit, everyone, Considerate and blessed, beneath the sun. In seven days, creation's tale, God's order set, His love unveiled, A weekly rest where hearts prevail, And weary souls in peace exhale. Walter Brueggemann's wisdom clear, Beyond productivity, life is dear, Sabbath's first call is to adhere, To rest from Pharaoh's grip and fear. "Come to me," the Savior pleads, For those who labor, burdens heeds, "My yoke is easy," meets our needs, In humble hearts, His rest proceeds. "The Sabbath made for man," it's told, A gift we need, a truth of old, A declaration, brave and bold, From Egypt's grasp, we break the mold. Not just a day for chapel or cheer, But a new beginning, week to week, A life in Sabbath's spirit, dear, Where freedom, rest, and joy we seek. The future bright, a hopeful sight, A time to understand, to see the light, A day of rest, renewal's height, To reconnect with God’s pure might. Misunderstood in modern ways, The Sabbath's true intent conveys, Not busy acts, but stillness stays, In peace and rest, our hearts appraise. A vision forward, clear and grand, Where Sabbath's purpose we expand, Observed in love, not by command, In God's presence, together we stand. Written by Steven G. Lee (June 1, 2024)