A Special Interval For Rest And Worship

During the encounter Moses experienced with God on Mount Sinai he received instructions with respect to the Dwelling and laws to govern the Israelites. 

In the 31st chapter of Exodus Moses designated two skilled craftsmen, Bezalel and Oholiab, as lead designers of the Dwelling and all the special articles linked to it.. They could be trusted to construct it, and they also possessed the skill to communicate all phases of the work to others until it was completed.

Moses had become an experienced leader with a vision from God. He esteemed those wise and talented persons whose experience suggested the knowledge to carry God's vision forward.

Apparently Moses welcomed with humility and grace the prospect of involving others while not absolving himself of moral responsibility for what he was charged to accomplish.

Moses understood that a major aspect of his assignment throughout the design and construction of the Dwelling was to ensure that the work did not prevent persons from two essential activities: worship and rest.

Everyone within the Israelite camp was to observe the Sabbath whether they thought it was necessary or unnecessary. As in all work, the meticulous design and effort involved in constructing the Dwelling would have led to strain and heightened levels of tension for all and especially among those involved.

Mental and physical rest would have eased certain tensions. However, bodily rest alone would never have addressed or ameliorated deficits within the soul. The spiritual need for genuine worship promoted a wholeness of being that inspired perfect harmony with the will of God. In the Israelite community the Sabbath addressed this need for harmonious balance.


Attentiveness to the Sabbath among the Israelites seems to also seems to parallel our contemporary need for physical rest and spiritual release. The constructive journey of life itself can be filled with the misery of anguish and tension of uncertainty. In response to this soul-emptying experience Jesus said in Matthew 11:28 - 30 (NIV), "Come unto me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me...for my yoke is easy and my burden is light." 

His offer is that of a very special and unique Sabbath that empowers us for all of life’s challenges. In him we find God through whom all of our commitment and dedication is entirely rewarding and eternally worthwhile.