In an increasingly hectic and stressful world, you need rest. But that is not simply our idea—it is a goal that God planned for us, his creatures, made in his image. The Fourth Commandment, Exodus 20:8-11, the longest of the Commandments, points you to the gift of rest.
Look back at the Sabbath. Look back to creation rest. The Commandment begins with remember. Not only is that an exhortation to keep the instruction in your mind, but it also points back, all the way to creation. Don’t dismiss this Commandment as simply part of the ceremonial law for Israel, though there were ceremonial aspects. It is a creation ordinance. God worked in creating for six days. Notice that this Commandment also commands you to work. It gives dignity and meaning to labor. Then God rested—not because he was tired, but in order to celebrate his very good creation. And he entered his rest so that mankind could join him in that rest. Continue reading “Rest!”