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February 7

Exodus 20:1-22:15

One thing that jumps at me this morning is how nearly everyone acknowledges as valid for life today, all the commandments except one, to remember the Sabbath and keep it holy. I do not see in the New Testament where that was done away with. We see where Christians gathered on the first day of the week for worship and giving, but that does not really speak to the “7^th-day” issue.

Well, before I am misunderstood, let me say, that we do not go to any commandments for salvation. We go to the commandments and discover our need for salvation. The commandments teach us how hopelessly lost we are – how totally unable to keep the whole Law. The commandments teach us this, not because the commandments are bad, but because they are good – in fact, perfect. When we look at them, we know how imperfect we are. The only way one can keep the Law is with love. Love God with all you are and love others as yourself. Then the commandments are within reach, for the love of God works victory in us through Jesus Christ.

You see, Jesus taught us that these commandments go much deeper than what appears on the surface. They are concepts of the heart. From the very beginning, God has taught us that rest is important. And when we neglect proper rest (regardless of what day of the week we may choose), we neglect the well-being that God designed to come from rest. God cares for us and nothing shows that tender care more clearly than this teaching of resting periodically. Indeed, the ultimate teaching of the Sabbath is the very heart of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, because He is Lord of the Sabbath, and the only true rest is found in Him.

Are you soul-weary? Surrender to Christ and find rest – find your Sabbath.

Ó 2004-2007 C. E. Briggs