Making Your Own Sacred Space: A Messianic Guide to Shabbat Prep and Peacekeeping
“Shabbat Table” image by Suzi Wollman
Welcoming the Presence of Shalom
In the Messianic walk, Shabbat isn’t just a day—it’s a sanctuary in time. From sundown Friday to sundown Saturday, we’re invited to stop striving, remember our Creator, and rest in Yeshua, the Lord of the Sabbath. But true rest begins long before the candles are lit. This post is a gentle, practical guide to making your home a sacred space—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—for Shabbat.
1. Preparing the Physical Space: From Clutter to Candlelight
Declutter with intention: Tidy key areas on Friday (kitchen, table, entry) with joy, not pressure. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s peace.
Set apart a corner: Even in a small home, designate a spot for prayer, blessing, or candle lighting. A linen cloth, flowers, or a scripture card can mark the space.
Include symbols
Add a small table runner with pomegranates (fruitfulness), candlesticks, challah cover, or a scripture banner. These remind us of our calling and identity.
2. Spiritual Prep: Rest Starts in the Soul
Light candles, then pause
As the flames are kindled, speak a blessing and take a deep breath. Let the week fall away
Bless the family: Bless your spouse and children aloud—especially fathers. It sets the tone for the whole household.
Read Scripture together: Consider Exodus 20:8–11, Isaiah 58, or Matthew 11:28–30. Yeshua's invitation is personal.
3. Peacekeeping: Shabbat as a Covenant of Shalom
Forgive before sundown: In Jewish tradition, it is customary to make peace before Shabbat begins. This aligns with Yeshua’s teaching (Matthew 5:23–24).
Slow your speech: Speak gently, especially if tensions rise. Shabbat is a training ground for the fruit of the Spirit.
Avoid strife: Postpone hard conversations until after Havdalah (close of Shabbat). Protect the peace of the day.
4. Cooking with Love, Serving with Joy
Prepare ahead: Use Friday to prep meals so the actual day of rest includes as little kitchen work as possible. One-pot dishes, slow-cooked stews, or pre-made platters work beautifully.
Let the table speak: Use cloth napkins, candles, and bread on a plate covered with linen. Let each detail whisper, “You are home, and this time is holy.”
“Blue and White Shabbat Table” image by Suzi Wollman
5. Making Shabbat Your Own: Traditions That Fit You
Create family rituals: Blessings, songs, a shared psalm, or a special dessert can anchor the day.
Invite in the lonely: Shabbat is a picture of the Kingdom to come. If possible, welcome others who may need to feel that peace.
Keep it light: Don’t let man-made pressure rob you of the gift. Shabbat is not a test—it’s a foretaste of restoration.
Final Thoughts: Shabbat as a Dwelling Place
In Exodus 31, Shabbat is called an ot, a sign between God and His people. When you create a sacred space each week, you’re testifying: “I belong to the God who rested—and I trust Him to carry what I lay down.”
Whether you live in a large home or a small condo, the peace of Shabbat is possible. Begin with a candle, a prayer, and a willing heart. The rest will follow.
“Menorah in the Window” image by Suzi Wollman