“Shabbat: Embracing Divine Peace from Sundown to Sundown”
In the heart of Jerusalem, amidst a day that should have been enveloped in peace and reflection, October 7th unfolded with a stark reminder of the fragility of our world through the tragic events that occurred. This poignant moment serves as a powerful call to adhere closely to Yehovah’s commandments, especially the sacred observance of Shabbat, a day set apart for peace, reflection, and divine connection in a tumultuous world. The Scriptures, our eternal guide, emphasize the sanctity of this day of rest, warning against its neglect and the dire consequences thereof.
Shabbat, as delineated in Exodus 20:8-11, is a day to remember and keep holy, signifying Yehovah’s completion of creation in six days and His rest on the seventh. It is a divine invitation to rest, reflect, and rejuvenate, extending from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown, aligning with the rhythm of creation itself.
“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of Yehovah thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work…” (Exodus 20:8-10).
This observance is a profound sign of our covenant with Yehovah, as stated in Exodus 31:13, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am Yehovah that doth sanctify you.” It is an expression of our identity as His people, chosen to walk in His ways.
The blessings associated with keeping the Shabbat are numerous, encompassing spiritual renewal, physical rest, and strengthened bonds within families and communities. Isaiah 58:13-14 articulates that if we honor the Sabbath as a delight, sacred to Yehovah, not pursuing our own interests or speaking idle words, then we shall find joy in Yehovah. He promises to elevate us to the heights of the earth and nourish us with the heritage of Jacob, our father, for the mouth of Yehovah has spoken.
In contrast, disregarding the Shabbat leads to consequences, as each commandment contains both a blessing for obedience and a curse for disobedience. The events of October 7th underscore the critical importance of living in harmony with Yehovah’s commandments.
Yehovah’s divine timetable, including the Shabbat from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown, and His feasts, are appointed times for us to honor and celebrate. Leviticus 23 details these sacred convocations, emphasizing the importance of aligning our lives with His ordained rhythms.
In conclusion, the observance of Shabbat transcends tradition or ritual; it is a profound act of faith and obedience to Yehovah. It offers an opportunity to affirm our commitment to His ways and to receive His blessings fully. As we remember and keep the Shabbat, embracing the peace it offers from sundown to sundown, let us renew our dedication to this divine rhythm of rest and worship, honoring Yehovah with our time and lives.
“Thus says Yehovah, Keep judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that does this, and the son of man that lays hold on it; that keeps the sabbath from polluting it, and keeps his hand from doing any evil” (Isaiah 56:1-2).
By faithfully observing Shabbat from sundown to sundown, we align ourselves with Yehovah’s will, welcoming the blessings He promises and affirming our cherished identity as His children, even amidst the world’s upheavals.
