Challah: Embracing Rest & Reflection

Shabbat is a sacred gift of rest that God gave to His people. In Genesis 2:2-3, we learn that after creating the world, God rested on the seventh day, blessing it and making it holy. Shabbat is a time for families to come together, set aside the busyness of life, and reflect on the countless ways God has shown His love and faithfulness. It’s a moment to pause, to breathe, and to remember His goodness.

Jesus emphasized the importance of rest. In Mark 2:27, He said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Shabbat is not about obligation but that it’s a beautiful gift from God, meant to refresh our hearts, renew our spirits, and bring us closer to Him.

One of the special traditions of Shabbat is sharing challah, a beautifully braided bread that symbolizes God’s love and the wonder of His creation. As we break bread together, we are reminded of Jesus, the Bread of Life. In John 6:35, Jesus says, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never go hungry.” Just as challah nourishes our bodies, Jesus nourishes our souls, filling us with His peace and presence.

This week, consider making Shabbat extra special by baking challah with your family. As you knead and braid the dough, take time to share what you’re thankful for and reflect on the ways God has blessed your family. When you gather around the table to enjoy the warm, freshly baked challah, say a prayer of gratitude thanking Jesus for being the Bread of Life and for the rest and peace He offers.

If you're looking for a way to make Shabbat an even more meaningful part of your week, consider joining our Shabbat Club. It's a beautiful way to stay connected, deepen your faith, and experience the peace and joy of Shabbat in a fresh, inspiring way. We’d love for you to be part of this journey with us.