What is Sabbath for a Mom?

By Lisa Catania

As a busy mom, I wonder how to really have Sabbath. With all of the cooking, cleaning, child chasing, carpooling, sports cheering, bill paying, on and on…..can I really stop? I honestly have a hard time sitting still through a tv show without putting dinner in the oven, helping kids with homework and folding clothes at the same time. I struggle with sitting still. My “to do” list is a mile long. Honestly, I have been very challenged by our sermon series on “Rest”. However, I know the God who loves me and created me says, “rest”.

²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

When I read this passage in Matthew 11:28-30, I hear God’s voice gently speaking to me to take time to really rest. I am now spending my Sunday afternoons hiding my “to do” list from myself. I will find it tomorrow. I am now really focusing on relaxing with the kids, taking walks by the creek outside, reading by the fire, chatting with friends, and getting nothing done on my “to do” list. I have even decided that Sunday dinner is leftovers or a crock pot, so I am not burdened cooking. In fact, I finding that by resting, I am giving God my “to do” list and finding peace with Him. By Mondays, I am truly feeling refreshed and ready for my week. Hmmm….this rest called Sabbath has been a blessing for my soul and my family!