Keeping Sabbath is a test of faith that removes a day’s wages (or a day’s progress in our projects for workaholics) so that we recognize that his care for us far surpasses our efforts. At the core of observing Sabbath rest is an intentional use of time aimed at personal (and church body) renewal. That renewal is driven by an awareness of God’s goodness, provision, and presence flowing from prioritized time in worship together with family and church. Sabbath provides a weekly opportunity to cease from things that crowd our spirit, to rest deeply, to feast on things that fill our spirit, and to embrace God’s way more fully. When we regularly reboot in Sabbath rest, we are in much better shape OEL to serve as ambassadors for the King.

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The culture around us defines us according to our occupation and income. We are human “doings” in the eyes of the world. We are created in the image of God, the true source of our value, worth & identity. We are human “beings” in His eyes. Because we are made in His image, His example of resting from His work from the very beginning is a precedent for us. Jesus’ teaching that the Sabbath was made to benefit us is a guiding principle that surpasses the legalistic rote obedience exemplified by the Pharisees in His time. Sabbath provides a rhythm of reset that feeds our soul and refreshes our identity in part by remembering God’s faithful actions on our behalf in the past.

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God very strongly identifies the orphan/fatherless, widow and immigrant as being objects of His special attention. His identity is bound up with how much He cares for them. YHVH commands a structure in Israel’s everyday society that provides for the poor in their midst. That provision includes various “flavors” of food. We are called to live like and look like our Father in our treatment of the orphan/fatherless, widow and immigrant. Mistreating the poor is equal to worshiping other gods in YHVH’s view of Israel. Their failure to compassionately care for the poor is a chief reason for their exile. The purest way to follow/please God is to care for the poor.

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