Scripture:

Exodus 20:8-11
Deuteronomy 5:12-15

Meditation:

Well of life,
Bless my heart with the gifts of Sabbath,
The presence of your love in my pulse,
Your glory in my chest,
And Your wonder in my breath.
Bless my eyes with the gifts of Sabbath,
The beauty of the candlesticks,
The cup and bread.
Bless my lips with the gifts of Sabbath,
Rejoicing in song and prayer,
Our melodies ancient and new.
Bless my ears with the gift of Sabbath,
Hymns and praises,
The songs of old,
And blessed words of Scripture.
Bless my soul with the gifts of Sabbath,
Awe and thanksgiving,
Calm and surrender,
Beauty, righteousness, and peace.

(adapted from “For the Arrival of Shabbat” by Alden Solovy in This Grateful Heart, 2017)

PRAYER:

O God, as darkness gives way to light and winter sleep to fresh beginnings,
May this Sabbath be a reminder of your love for me. Amen.