Why in the world did God rest after rustling up all of Creation? Did He, omniscient and all-powerful One, need to rest? Seems like He was modeling a potent example specifically for us, not due to His own need or fatigue.
So why would God have modeled this to us, even before the fall? After the Fall where our bodies are subject to decay, rest seems more necessary. But, before the Fall? If God’s example is not compensating for human bodily decay, then resting seems like it must be rooted in relationship. While my mind and focus are flowing at an easy pace, I have much more space for genuine worship.
Fast forward a bit here. By the time Moses transcribed the Ten Commandments, God elevated this dynamic of Resting from an example to a law. Now, fast forward again to current day. In our current, fast-paced culture with a plethora of opportunities to distract our attention from Resting, this concept seems even more important. We can busy ourselves with necessary and appropriate tasks, such as job responsibilities and providing for our families. Sometimes we can enjoy and be energized by this pace of life. The challenge may emerge when we do not see an invisible threshold and slide down a continuum from being invigorated by this process to being depleted, seduced by our own productivity.
Here’s one more piece to consider in this puzzle. Jesus had an interesting habit. He regularly withdrew from crowds, or even His inner circle, to spend time with Father God. He left wonderful opportunities for witnessing, healing, and loving for a greater love, regularly rejuvenating His spirit by hanging out with God.
So, how can I harness this continuum, to not only obey Old Testament law, but to move toward the function behind the law (if you agree with the aforementioned premise) of relationship and worship? Two items come to mind: Grace and Gratitude. Grace is incredibly useful as I practice slowing down, recognizing that I’m moving in a counter-cultural direction, away from justifying my time or earning identity. And Gratitude is pivotal in focusing my worship, being mindful of God’s gifts on loan to me, mindful of His profound love for me.
How might this apply to you? When you engage your great brain, what do you think about God’s model of Resting, particularly in that He offered this before the Fall? What are your thoughts about Grace and Gratitude as tools toward focusing on your own worship this season?
Many blessings as you consider your own Sabbath during Holy week and remembering Jesus’ Resurrection!