Advent historically is a season of repentance, of waiting, of pulling back. And so this Sunday is the day to rejoice. The readings are a bit brighter, even the color is a bit brighter. It’s meant to bring a little relief, a little rest. So what a great day to look at the 3rd Commandment, where God actually commands us to rest. And, as our busy lives would indicate, we do need to be told to rest.
But this rest is qualitatively different than simply taking a break, vegging in front of the TV, or even taking a vacation. This rest is something far better. The Bible calls it a “Sabbath Rest.” John the Baptist, ironically, exemplifies this rest.
A sermon on the 3rd Commandment + Matthew 11:2-11 by Rev. Jeff Hendrix
