Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

I remember when everything changed as I began keeping the Shabbat (Sabbath).

My love for others grew, my understanding of Scripture deepened, and my desire to love Elohim (God) and my neighbors increased. I became more forgiving, content, and peaceful. I never knew true peace before. Life now is more abundant.

This transformation came from choosing to believe what Scripture says—"forever" and "throughout all your generations"—and from separating myself from popular traditions to follow this path.

Act 15:21  For from the earliest times, Moshe has had in every city those who proclaim him, with his words being read in the synagogues every Shabbat." Acts 15:21

Moshes' teachings are read and learned every Shabbat, giving time for new understanding each week.

The Shabbat is:

a blessed day (Genesis 2:3).
a commandment (Exodus 20:8-10).
a covenant (Exodus 31:12-17).
a sign (Ezekiel 20:12).
a delight (Isaiah 58:13).
a day of rest remaining today (Hebrews 4:9-11).
a holy/set-apart day (Isaiah 58:13).
a sanctified day (Genesis 2:2-3).
a demonstration of love (John 14:15).
a day made for man (Mark 2:27-28).

“Blessed is the man who does this, and the son of man who becomes strong in it, guarding the Shabbat lest he profane it, and guarding his hand from doing any evil."Isaiah 56:2

As the Shabbat arrives again, let us praise the Most High for the special peace this day brings—HalleluYah, Shabbat Shalom!

When is the Shabbat? The Shabbat is from Friday sundown/last light until Saturday sundown/last light.

What shouldn't be done on Shabbat?

No Work, strenuous activity, cooking (prepare food the day before), buying or selling—which encourages others to disregard Elohim's word and work on Shabbat—and causing arguments. These do not benefit you on Shabbat.

On the Shabbat, focus on rest, learning about Yehovah and His word, treating the day as special, and acting with kindness. These actions help honor the purpose of the Shabbat.

Father in heaven, Abba, יהוה, thank you for all the blessings in our lives. Thank you for giving us a chance to return to you. Thank you for your long suffering and your loving kindness. Thank you for your Word and for opening our eyes to its wonders. Thank you for your Shabbat and for the shalom we experience on your Moedim. Bless you, יהוה, creator of heaven and earth. You bring forth all good things in their season. There is no other like you. Your steadfast love endures forever. Bless your holy name, Yehovah!

By Rabbi HaTzair M. Francisco Arbas