The next topic in the “For the Strength of Youth” manual is “Sabbath Day Observance.” This is a wonderful topic to review with your family. It is also a great opportunity to create a positive Sabbath day experience.
Open the lesson by reading Exodus 20:8. Then as a family discuss the importance of keeping the Sabbath day holy. Read the section “Sabbath Day Observance” from the “For the Strength of Youth” manual. You should stress that we keep the Sabbath to honor the Lord. You may want to talk about the different activities, which are appropriate for the Sabbath day. It is important to stress the positive aspects of keeping the Sabbath day holy. You may also want to list activities, which are inappropriate for the Sabbath. You may want to use “Day of Delight,” “Sabbath Liberated” and this FYI list as supplements to your lesson. You can use this time to create Sunday traditions for your family. You may spend that night together playing a board game, or baking cookies. You may want to spend the time writing letters or visiting others. You can choose something to do as a family to make the day more special. Conclude your lesson by reading and discussing Doctrine and Covenants 59:9-13.
If you are teaching Primary age children you may want to share the story of the Israelites gathering manna in the wilderness. The manna did not go bad when they gathered extra for the Sabbath. However, if they gathered extra any other day it did go bad. There is a game, which involves listing appropriate Sabbath day activities and gathering manna in a basket. You can find it here. There is also a Sabbath day finger fun activity you can do with your family.
If you are teaching primarily adults you may want to use “The Lord’s Day” and “The Sabbath—A Delight.” These are excellent articles. The entire January 1978 issue of the “Ensign” is devoted to the observance of the Sabbath day. You can lead a discussion on the blessings of keeping the Sabbath day holy.
You may want to use “Remember the Sabbath” p 155 and “Saturday” p 196 from the “Children’s Songbook” for songs. “Welcome, Welcome Sabbath Morning” p 280 and “Gently Raise the Sacred Strain” p 146 are excellent hymns to sing as well. Be sure to have an activity and refreshments with your family.