Sabbath as Resistance | Sabbath is ceasing, celebrating, and communing with God in community
What the Sabbath is NOT:
Sabbath is not simply “a day off”.
As Eugene Peterson once remarked, “A ‘day off’ is a bastardization of Sabbath-keeping.“
Sabbath is not solitude and silence.
Those are distinct spiritual disciplines. The Sabbath might include those elements but cannot be reduced to them.
The Sabbath is not a private affair.
Family, friends, and the family of God can and should be involved.
The Sabbath is not a solemn affair.
Traditionally, there was no fasting on the Sabbath day. The Sabbath is worth celebrating - break out a bountiful table, eat succulent food, laugh & play with friends and family.
The Sabbath: What is it?
Sabbath is ceasing, celebrating, and communing with God in community.
Ceasing…from work
Your pattern of work and rest is embedded in creation. This is who you were created to be.
Celebrating…your redemption
You are not a slave to work nor the inner compulsions that drive you towards non-stop production; the Sabbath is a day to celebrate your freedom. You were liberated! You were redeemed! By Christ! You celebrate those realities in your life! You celebrate freedom, life, creation, your humanity, and the goodness of God on the Sabbath.
Communion…with God
“Come to me,” says the gentle and lowly Christ. This is a gentle invitation is to find rest for your souls as you commune with God.
In Community
Sabbath is not an individualistic pursuit but rather a communal endeavor. Celebrate the Sabbath with the family of God as well as your own family and friends.
“Because we do not rest, we lose our way.” (Wayne Muller) Try this self-evaluative diagnostic: “10 Symptoms of Hurry Sickness”.
Are you being drawn to a new rhythm of life? An ancient practice that is being re-discovered in the modern era?
“Remember the Sabbath” (Ex. 20:8).
I’ve developed two resources entitled: “Sabbath as Resistance”.
Sabbath as Resistance: A Six-Lesson Study Guide for Individuals or Groups
The Study Guide consists of six lessons to promote conversation (in groups) or contemplation (for individuals). Each lesson covers a portion of scripture, covers a “bid idea” for the lesson, and provides engaging instructional questions.
Sabbath as Resistance: A Reading Guide
A Reading Guide represents a collated “best of the best” chapters from authors such as Ruth Haley Barton, John Mark Comer, Walter Bruggemann, A.J. Swoboda. In each lesson, participants can read a very manageable 15 pages per lesson.