AUG 5

Exodus 31:12-17
Memorise Exodus 35:2
“So the people rested on the seventh day.”

The Sabbath in the Old Testament was a very serious thing. Time and again the Lord had warned Israel to remember and keep the Sabbath. The penalty for breaking the Sabbath was severe, punishable by death. In fact, in order to impress upon the people the severity of this commandment, Numbers 15:32-36 records for us a seemingly small and insignificant event that happened as they wandered through the wilderness. They had caught a man picking up sticks on the Sabbath, and unsure of what to do, they brought the matter before Moses. The Lord then decreed that the man must be stoned to death for his crime. The emphasis here was on the grave necessity of keeping the Sabbath law, for that would ensure that each generation would follow and obey. To allow one person to openly disobey would set precedence for others to follow, and very soon anarchy would follow.

For the Jews, every Sabbath day was a momentous occasion, where there would be a complete cessation from work. No one was allowed to practice their usual occupation, except for acts of mercy or necessity. This prohibition extended to anyone staying in their household, including foreigners, servants and even their livestock. It was to be a very evident testimony to the surrounding nations that they were different, that they were a nation who trusted in God, and would devote one day in seven to worship Him. The temple sacrifices on that day were doubled, and worship was to be a prominent part of the entire day (Numbers 28:1-10).

Yet it was never meant to be a burden or a chore to them, but was designed to be a day of celebration as they remembered God’s work in Creation, and also in freeing them from Egypt and leading them to the Promised Land. In going through all the preparations and strict observances, they were weekly reminded of God and called to draw near to Him.

As we observe the OT keeping of this law, we too should reflect and examine how we ourselves regard the Lord’s Day. Is it a chore or a burden to us? Or do we sincerely and joyously look forward to the day where we can set aside to draw near to God and worship Him? Do I realise the seriousness of my sin, every time I break the Sabbath?

Thought: The Sabbath is serious to God, and should be to us as well.
Prayer: Lord, help me to see the importance of remembering the Sabbath and keeping it holy.