You shall keep the Sabbath,

because it is holy for you.

...It is a sign forever

    between Me and the people of Israel

that in six days the LORD

           made heaven and earth,

and on the seventh day

  He rested and was refreshed.

                   Exodus 31. 14, 17

(God designated the Sabbath

   not because He needed it,

but He knows we need it,

not just to rest

    but to acknowledge

    who is our God.

What other god or religion

   gives us a day off from work

                          every week?

How's that for countercultural?

Do others see that

             difference in us?

Do we prepare for it?

Or do we treat Sunday

           like just any other day?)

O LORD,

We are struggling with stress,

     worry, anxiety and work,

because we ignore the Sabbath

         and don't lay aside the time

        not just to worship You,

                but rest in You.

Refresh our hearts

         by Your Presence.

Help us to not just take the time,

      but make the time

      to honor You.