How do you Sunday?

Sunday is the day of Sabbath rest. It’s a day for us to focus on the Lord, to worship our Maker, and to set aside time, as well as an attitude of silence so that we are receptive to the ways that He wants to speak to our hearts. It’s a day to spend time with the people we love, to build community and grow in fellowship with one another. It’s a day of rest and relaxation, a day to take a respite from the daily grind, to seek wisdom in silence and reflection. It’s a day where we can become more aware of the beauty in creation, and joy in even the littlest aspects of life that we treasure.

Observing the Sabbath looks different for all of us, especially in regards to our current state in life. For some it might mean having a big family brunch with our extended family, or going for a family hike. For others it might mean gathering with close church friends and reflecting on God’s word in our life. Or maybe it means connecting with the people we love that are many miles away.

Today has been a Sunday filled with many of the things that bring me the joy of the Lord: a lively Mass filled with jubilant singing and energetic families surrounding me; a brunch of delicious bagel sandwiches made at a local bagel shop and a Starbucks hazelnut latte, over conversations with good friends; talking with my family on the phone, including a conversation with my mom who I am especially grateful for today on this Mother’s Day; sitting outside at coffee shop in a funky urban neighborhood, with the sun shining against a deep blue sky while a soft breeze blows as I read a historical fiction novel; writing (as I am right now), watching the colorful array of city dwellers pass by my way.

Sure, we all manage to keep a spirit of the Sabbath better some Sundays than others. “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” But on days like today, I am especially thankful that the Lord has given us this day to become refreshed, to be blessed, and to be united in the joy of His Resurrection, in whatever simple forms that may take. Happy Sunday-ing.