Back to All Events

Exodus 23:6-16, Rest for Land and Livestock

Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today

For six days you shall do your work, but on the seventh day you shall rest, so that your ox and your donkey may have relief, and your home-born slave and the resident alien may be refreshed.
— Exodus 23:12

NL Daily Devotion for Monday, September 2, 2019

by Daniel D. Maurer, Clergy Stuff

A1PSP1.png

I find it more than interesting that Sabbath was intended not only for human beings, but for animals as well. Given that in that day and age, draft animals were considered property to be exploited to its highest efficiency, that meant that giving the animals time to rest was more than simply “being nice” to them. It was a matter of being careful not to burn out your tractor in the field!

What this means for us today is that rest, work, play, and worship are intended for all, not one subgroup of people or animals. Rest in this way becomes gift not only for the select few, but for all. Even your little dogs & kitties.

God, thank you for creating a restful space for all creatures. Amen.


 
Earlier Event: September 1
Luke 15:11-32, Sabbath for Community
Later Event: September 3
Joshua 11:18-23, Rest from War