Published in the bulletin of Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Knoxville, TN, on the 15th Sunday of Ordinary My dear Parishioners,
Peace! There are seven (7) “In Brief” articles in the Catechism of the Catholic Church addressing the Third Commandment of the Decalogue, ‘Keep Holy the Sabbath.’ The following is a reflection on CCC 2193.
When considering how we are to “Keep Holy the Sabbath” the Catechism cites the Code of Canon Law, canon 1247, which reminds us that we are to abstain from work and other affairs on Sundays and the other days of precept (Holy Days of Obligation). Three reasons are highlighted as to why we are to abstain from work and other affairs on Sundays and other Holy Days which we will consider individually.
The first reason we are to abstain from work and other affairs on the Sabbath is because such impedes the cult or worship of Almighty God, who has a right to be worshiped. If we are so busy doing whatever sort of work we do, day by day, and treat Sunday as if it is just any other day, we act as practical atheists, never giving God His due. When we participate in the Holy Mass we worship the Lord as He has commanded: Do this in memory of Me (cf. Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25). Our worship of God adds nothing to His greatness, but does fulfill one of our responsibilities toward our Creator and Redeemer.
The second reason we are to abstain from work and other affairs on the Sabbath is so as to not impede the proper joy of the day of the Lord. Sometimes even the best of jobs can be a grind. As the saying goes “all work and no play, makes us a dull soul” is no less true when considering all work and no pray… The joy allowed by stepping back only heightens our appreciation for our honest labors when we return to them. We rejoice in the Lord on His day at His direction and by His grace (cf. Acts 13:52; Romans 14:17; Galatians 5:22).
The third reason we are to abstain from work and others affairs on the Sabbath is to not impede the suitable relaxation of both body and spirit. Different activities are relaxing for different people, some like to hike, others like to fish, still others have different hobbies. Even certain sporting endeavors are in a real way relaxing, even though they may involve a great deal of perspiration. Even though great energies may be expended by these various forms of relaxation, when the are not our primary, daily task, they allow for a change of gears, so that when we return to our daily routine it will be with renewed vigor and appreciation.
While these explanations highlight reasons why and how we are to “Keep Holy the Sabbath” by abstaining form work and other affairs on the Sabbath we should also remember, simply, God’s positive command, which for believers, should never be considered insignificant (cf. Exodus 20:9-11; 31:15; 34:21; 35:2; Leviticus 23:3).
God bless you!
Father John Arthur Orr