And there was evening, and there was morning--the first day.
Genesis 1:5 NIV
Genesis 1:5 NIV
In the Book of Genesis, each day of creation is concluded with the phrase, "and there was evening and there was morning."
From the Hebrew perspective, the day begins at evening, specifically with the setting of the sun. How unlike our tradition, where we start our days at the crack of dawn and consider night to be the end of a long day.
What does it mean for the day to begin at evening?
For Hebrew people through the centuries, the transition from afternoon to evening has been marked by prayer. "Evening prayer" is a Jewish custom. After prayer, families gather together for a meal.
The most holy day of the week, the Sabbath, begins with the lighting of candles and a proclamation of faith, then a more formal family dinner. After the evening meal, Jewish families traditionally gather together to read God's Word and discuss how His laws apply to their lives. The evening ends in rest.
Consider the priorities evidenced by their way of life:
First, a focus upon prayer and one's relationship with God.
Second, an emphasis on family life.
Third, a daily study of Scripture, making God's Word the last thoughts of the day.
Fourth, rest and sleep.
It was only after a Hebrew talked with God, enjoyed the love and fellowship of family, studied the Scriptures, and rested, that work was undertaken!
What would happen in your life if you adopted this strategy for your evening hours? Is it possible you would find yourself more renewed and refreshed, more energetic and healthy, more creative and productive? Might the priorities you desire in your life become a reality?
Why not give it a try? Begin your next day in the evening, and wake up knowing you've totally refreshed--spirit, soul, and body--to have a full and productive day!
From the Hebrew perspective, the day begins at evening, specifically with the setting of the sun. How unlike our tradition, where we start our days at the crack of dawn and consider night to be the end of a long day.
What does it mean for the day to begin at evening?
For Hebrew people through the centuries, the transition from afternoon to evening has been marked by prayer. "Evening prayer" is a Jewish custom. After prayer, families gather together for a meal.
The most holy day of the week, the Sabbath, begins with the lighting of candles and a proclamation of faith, then a more formal family dinner. After the evening meal, Jewish families traditionally gather together to read God's Word and discuss how His laws apply to their lives. The evening ends in rest.
Consider the priorities evidenced by their way of life:
First, a focus upon prayer and one's relationship with God.
Second, an emphasis on family life.
Third, a daily study of Scripture, making God's Word the last thoughts of the day.
Fourth, rest and sleep.
It was only after a Hebrew talked with God, enjoyed the love and fellowship of family, studied the Scriptures, and rested, that work was undertaken!
What would happen in your life if you adopted this strategy for your evening hours? Is it possible you would find yourself more renewed and refreshed, more energetic and healthy, more creative and productive? Might the priorities you desire in your life become a reality?
Why not give it a try? Begin your next day in the evening, and wake up knowing you've totally refreshed--spirit, soul, and body--to have a full and productive day!
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