Just as Jews all over the world observe Saturday as their Sabbath Day, believers in Christ traditionally observe Sunday as the “Christian Sabbath” – a special day every week to rest and reflect, to connect with family and friends, and to worship the Lord. However, in recent times, our culture has been moving us further away from the concept of resting on Sundays. With the advent of technology and the 24/7 availability of work, it can be challenging to truly rest and disconnect on this day, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For homeschool families, the challenge can be even greater as the lines between work and leisure can blur. So how can you ensure that you are truly rested for this special day? Let’s explore some practical tips to help you and your family enjoy true rest on the Sabbath.
Plan ahead
One of the best ways to ensure that you are rested for the Sabbath is to plan ahead. This means thinking about what you need to do before Sunday arrives so that you can truly rest. For example, you might want to finish your work early in the week, so you’re not rushing to complete projects on Saturday afternoon. Or you might want to plan your meals in advance, so you’re not scrambling to cook everything on Sundays. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to enjoy this special day of rest without any last-minute stress.
Disconnect
In our hyper-connected world, it’s all too easy to be “on” all the time. But if you want to truly rest on the Sabbath, it’s important to disconnect. This might mean turning off your phone, computer, and other devices so that you’re not tempted to check your email or social media. Instead, focus on spending time with the Lord, your family, and your friends – engaging in reading or other restful activities. By disconnecting, you’ll be able to “recharge your batteries” and enjoy the Sabbath in a more meaningful way.
Create a peaceful atmosphere
Sunday should be a time to rest and rejuvenate, so it’s important to create a peaceful atmosphere in your home. Consider lighting candles, playing soft music, or diffusing essential oils to create a relaxing ambiance. You might also want to declutter your home before the weekend arrives, so that you’re not surrounded by clutter and chaos. By creating a peaceful atmosphere, you’ll be able to truly rest, connect with your family, and focus on building your relationship with God.
Engage in restful activities
The Sabbath is not just a time to rest physically, but also mentally and spiritually. This means engaging in restful activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. For example, you might want to take a walk in nature, or spend some time reading or listening to an edifying book like Pilgrim’s Progress – either personally or as a family. By engaging in restful activities, you’ll be able to truly feel rested and rejuvenated.
Practice gratitude
Sunday is a good time to appreciate all that we have and acknowledge the Lord’s blessings. One way to do this is to practice gratitude. Take time to pray together as a family and thank the Lord for all the good things in your life. You might also find it helpful to keep a gratitude journal. By practicing an attitude of thanksgiving, you and your family will be able to cultivate a positive mindset and enjoy Sunday with a sense of peace and contentment.
Resting on the Sabbath is important for homeschool families who are busy with work and daily responsibilities. By planning ahead, disconnecting, creating a peaceful atmosphere, engaging in restful activities, and practicing gratitude, you’ll be able to truly rest and rejuvenate on Sundays. Remember, this is a special time to worship the Lord, connect with family and friends, and recharge our batteries for a new week ahead. May the Lord help you and your loved ones enjoy this special day with a sense of peace and tranquility!
All for our King’s glory,
Christian
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