How does Matthew 28:1 inspire us to honor the Sabbath in our lives? The Setting in Matthew 28:1 “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.” What Mary’s Example Teaches about Sabbath Honor • Even in deep grief the women waited until the Sabbath ended before heading to the tomb, revealing sincere respect for God’s command to rest. • Their restraint shows that Sabbath observance is not merely ritual but an act of love for the Lord who set the day apart. • The timing underscores that Sabbath rest precedes resurrection joy; we pause with God before we rise to new work and new hope. Timeless Sabbath Principles Affirmed Throughout Scripture • Genesis 2:2-3 — God Himself “rested on the seventh day,” blessing and sanctifying it. • Exodus 20:8-11 — “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” The commandment anchors rest in creation and redemption. • Isaiah 58:13-14 — Treating the Sabbath as “delight” brings blessing and renewed strength. • Mark 2:27-28 — “The Sabbath was made for man,” a gracious gift rather than a burden. • Hebrews 4:9-10 — A “Sabbath rest” remains for God’s people, pointing both to weekly renewal and eternal rest in Christ. Principles for Honoring the Sabbath Today • Prioritize worship: gather with fellow believers as the early church did on “the first day of the week” (Acts 20:7). • Plan ahead: finish necessary tasks beforehand so the day feels unhurried, as Mary and the other Mary did. • Rest from ordinary labor: cease the striving that dominates the other six days, mirroring God’s own rest. • Delight in God’s works: spend time in Scripture, creation, and fellowship that stirs gratitude. • Serve mercifully: works of compassion align with Jesus’ example of healing on the Sabbath (Luke 6:9). • Celebrate resurrection hope: every Lord’s Day becomes a weekly reminder that Christ is risen indeed. Practical Steps for This Week • Set aside specific hours for uninterrupted worship and Bible reading. • Prepare meals in advance to reduce household busyness. • Limit digital noise that distracts from quiet reflection. • Take a peaceful walk, observing creation as a testimony to God’s finished work. • Share a family testimony time, recounting ways God proved faithful in the past week. Celebrating Rest and Resurrection Matthew 28:1 quietly portrays women who honored God’s timetable before racing to honor their Lord. Their obedience invites us to receive the Sabbath as God’s gracious rhythm: rest, then rise; cease, then celebrate; pause with Him, then proclaim the risen Christ to the world. |
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