Genesis 2:3 (NIV)

3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.

Mark 2:27 (NIV)

27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

I’m sitting on the beach at Carmel preparing my soul for Shabbat and watching the sunrise as I write this.

Carmel is a Sanctuary of Space for me. As soon as I park and start walking through the town, I can feel God’s presence. But when I get to the beach and my foot sinks into the powdery white sand… and then look up to the tree where my kids would climb when they were young… and walk down the steep slope of sand to the ocean pausing halfway to sit and enjoy… I feel God’s pleasure. My heart is filled, my eyes tear up, and my spirit is renewed. This is a sacred space for me, a Sanctuary of Space. 

The Sabbath, or Shabbat if you are Jew-y, is a Sanctuary of Time. As soon as we put on Miqedem music (or Chet Baker depending on the vibe) and start preparing the charcuterie, I can feel God’s presence. But,when we gather around the table… and kindle the festive lights… and pray the Kiddush and HaMotzi… and lay hands on and pray for everyone… and sing the Shabbat mega mix (IYKYK)… I feel God’s pleasure. My heart is filled, my eyes tear up, and my spirit is renewed. This is a sacred time for all of God’s children to meet with Him and be restored, a Sanctuary of Time.  

Your Turn:

This week, you are invited to celebrate the Sabbath. This sounds so much easier than it actually is. We have trained our bodies and souls to work nonstop. When we try to attempt to slow down and rest, they will turn on us. You need to prepare your body and soul for the Sabbath.

• Remind yourself each day, “My value isn’t dependent upon my performance. I am loved by God.” Your soul needs to hear it and won't believe it at first. Repeat it over and over this week until it begins to soak into your soul. 

• Nobody should celebrate the Sabbath alone. Host a dinner or find one to attend. Gather your family and maybe your friends. 

• Friday: Clean your house and prepare your meal. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it does have to be special. 

• Friday sunset: Sabbath meal.

  • Light: The woman of the house lights the candles and welcomes God’s presence to meet with you that evening. Remember that you are the light of the world. 

  • Kiddush: The man of the house blesses the wine and gives God thanks for joy and life. Fill the cup to overflow, a full cup being a symbol of fullness of joy. Remember Christ’s blood poured out to make us clean.

  • Motzi: The man of the house blesses the bread and gives God thanks for sustenance and provision. Remember Christ’s body, broken to provide a way for us to be one with God and each other. Season the bread with salt and remember that you are a living sacrifice and the salt of the earth.

  • Bless one another in this moment of celebrating God’s blessing.

  • Sing together - Doxology or any other simple song that everyone can join in singing. Joy is important!

  • Everyone bless each other by saying “Shabbat Shalom”.

  • Eat, drink, laugh, and rejoice. This is an act of worship and warfare.

• Saturday: Rest

  • Do what brings joy. Don’t try to accomplish anything. 

  • This is not a time for chores or honey-do lists. 

  • Read. Dance. Write. Sing. Nap. Go for a walk. Nosh (snack). Kiss. Play. Rejoice. 

  • Leave your phone in time out. Nothing will rob you of Sabbath like your phone. I’m serious about this one. The iPhone was made for man, not man for the iPhone. Leave it on the charger or in your Shabbat box (yes, you can check it occasionally for messages if necessary).

  • As the sun begins to set, take a moment to thank God for providing this Sanctuary of Time to meet with Him.