There are an increasing number of believers in Y’shua as Moshiach (Messiah) who are learning and trying to follow His example. Some of the most obvious things that Y’shua did were observe the feasts and holy days that HaShem commanded all to keep and observe.

There are several days that are commanded in Torah, but the first and foremost is the Shabbat, also known as the Sabbath. This day is not only the most popular, but it is also the day of observance that is celebrated more than all others. The Shabbat happens on the seventh day of every week, starting from the Gregorian Friday evening at sundown to the following Saturday evening at sundown.

There are those that have gone full-blown into celebrating the Sabbath within a matter of a week to a month, while many others for various reasons take their time. Both are acceptable; G-D knows your heart and your capacity. And as long as one is looking to Him and obeying Him in all things including how, when and to what degree each holy day be observed, then all is heading in the right direction.

There is a need, however, for some teaching on how to observe the Shabbat either within a family where all are not ready or even accepting of observing the Shabbat to those that take things better when they ease into them instead of jumping straight into them.

There are a few things to keep in mind about the Shabbat. First, some work is allowed. Some of you may be gasping, I know, but the cohanim (priests) worked on Shabbat. A modern day example is the rabbis. They are busy teaching to us; certainly, you cannot say that Shabbat is a day off for them, but are they wrong? Are they breaking Torah? The answer is no.

One should not do unnecessary work or work that is done for one’s own gain. The rabbis are teaching others; it is not just for their own good, but it is for the good of their congregation. Furthermore, they are leading the congregation into the observance of Shabbat further.

All unnecessary work should not be done. What does this mean? What is considered unnecessary? Things such as mowing the grass, dusting, cleaning the stove, and repairing a bike are not necessities of life to get through the day of rest. On the other hand, clean dishes are a necessity for a number of health reasons. After all, you are not to fast on Shabbat. Eating is part of the holiday.

Let’s bring this to the family that is easing into things or in a family that may not be all for observing Shabbat. How can the desires be fulfilled while not offending the others’ feelings? A lot of it depends on the approach. Since when has anyone condemned another for having a clean house for the weekend? That is a rare case, to be sure. How does one do this? Personally, our family starts on Thursday. That way, by the time Friday evening rolls around, we can truly relax, and it is not as rushed on Friday since we start a day early.

The next and the most obvious difference is concerning the Shabbat dinner itself. The table is the first notable difference. There are many out there who are short on money. Start with two simple white candles. One is for the commandment of remembering the Shabbat. And the other represents the observing (or keeping) of it. This can be an easy way to set apart the table.

In mixed company, you may not want to explain the meaning of the candles. It may simply be a Friday evening treat. This is all true. One must know that he cannot just bombard others with all the information that he has many times. Discretion and the leading of Ruach HaKodesh are key in all of this. The Jewish way, after all, is to ask and answer questions. So wait for that opportunity.

Depending on how much your family knows and is willing, you may also want to add other “special” items just for Shabbat, such as extra dishes, tablecloth, napkins, placemats, flowers on the table, etc. Remember, that the two commandments are to “remember” and “observe.” There are no set ways to observe besides to rest. The table is probably the easiest and most festive way to “set apart” this day.

In our family Shabbat is the highlight of the week, and it is considered a holiday. What is more wonderful than a holiday every week? Boy! I missed out on this my whole life...this is great! Remember to share that joy. My kids love to give loved ones cards and small tokens of affection.

Moving forward, going to a Messianic synagogue is a great way to set the day apart. Unfortunately, I know so many that do not have a synagogue near them at this time that teaches in the light of Y’shua being HaMoshiach. But there are other ways to set the day apart. Studying Tanakh is a way. Also, it is a great day for the sharing of Scriptures with others. We, personally, enjoy having friends and loved ones come to visit and share Torah, life, food, and just good company. If that sounds too much, just invite a friend for fellowship. It is great that G-D gives us the liberty of resting as we please, whether with others or just with our pillows, sawing logs (zzzzzzzzz).

This is truly the most blessed and holy day of all days of the week. It is to be a blessing and not bondage. One does not have to have an Erev Shabbat service, although it is nice. It does have its place, but there is so many that feel that is foreboding or have others that would be offended. HaShem has given us liberty, and He has given us an imagination. We can use them both as we come with our own unique way and brand of observing Shabbat.

Abigail Steele is a Messianic Jewish Believer and the secretary and Webmaster of B'rit Ahm Messianic Synagogue in Pensacola, Florida.

Copyright 2002