As a homeschooling parent, my days are often a whirlwind of activity, filled to the brim with lesson plans, extracurricular activities, and endless attempts at optimizing every second of our day.
It’s what we, as mothers, are told to do.
I had read countless articles by well-intentioned mothers, each offering tips on maximizing our morning routines and squeezing productivity into every nook and cranny of our schedule. I followed their advice with noble aspirations; I wanted to provide my children with the best education, the most enriching experiences, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
However, reality often fell short of my ambitious goals.
Despite my relentless efforts, my kids often dragged their heels through our meticulously planned days, accomplishing little, and I found myself drowning in frustration. The to-do lists grew, but our sense of accomplishment shrank, and the toll it took on all of us was undeniable. Meltdowns became a regular occurrence – not just from my kids but from me, too.
It was during one of those moments of exasperation that a revelation struck me like a bolt of lightning.
The exhausting cycle of packed days, stressed-out kids, and emotional meltdowns was not going to change until rest became a central factor in our lives.
I needed to pivot, to transform the way I approached parenting.
My realization came one day as I was reading Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (NIV).
Jesus’ words struck a chord deep within me. His invitation to find rest in Him was a reminder that in the midst of my family’s hectic life, He is our source of calm and renewal. But even more so, it was a wake-up call for me to pursue slow, unhurried living within our family.
Since that day on my living room couch with my Bible in hand, when my world felt rocked to its core, our family has made some big changes.
For example, in our home we now have:
- Morning Rituals: We begin the day slowly and when everyone is ready. We come together for family prayer and read a short Scripture passage to set a calm tone.
- Simplified Scheduling: I have more of a skeleton list of to-do’s, prioritizing quality over quantity in activities and lessons to reduce rush and stress.
- Outdoor Exploration: When the weather permits, we spend time in nature as a family, going on slow walks, hikes, or picnics. Surprisingly, it’s while we’re outdoors that I have some of the most meaningful conversations and connections with my kids.
- Quiet Times: We have daily quiet times where everyone can read, color, or simply enjoy moments of solitude. This has been a game changer for us, and we all feel rejuvenated afterward.
- Unplanned Moments: I’m naturally Type A and a planner, but I’ve learned to embrace unstructured, spontaneous moments as a family, allowing time for play and creativity.
Taking to heart Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28 extended far beyond the weariness of my individual soul; they became a healing balm over the fatigue of our home and the pressures of our daily lives.
Choosing the path of slow, unhurried living, I watched in awe as Jesus transformed our home into a haven of peace.
Now (for the most part), the relentless rush of the world is left at the doorstep, and tranquility has taken its place. My kids still complain at times or don’t want to do schoolwork. But I now respond to them from a place of rest, and with the aim of maintaining our home as a sanctuary where stress and anxiety find no foothold.
When our homes become havens of rest, we shed the burdens of busyness and constant striving, discovering a deeper connection with ourselves and with one another. It’s in the unhurried moments that we truly see and hear one another, building bonds that withstand the test of time.
When we parent from a place of rest, we also grow spiritually. We model a life of rest for our children, teaching them not only the value of unhurried living but also the spiritual benefits of drawing near to God for refuge and renewal.
My prayer for you today is that your home can become a haven of peace as well, for your days to be characterized by unhurried moments, and for you to experience the richest blessings and the abiding presence of God’s grace.
Before I was fully awake this morning Matthew 11:28 came to mind. Then I read your beautiful post reinforcing what God had already brought to mind! I’m giving myself permission to set the snooze alarm rather than add another chore to the beginning of my day. God certainly calls us to Himself for what is best! Blessings! (((0)))
Amen! I hope you got some extra sleep today. Sometimes, the holiest thing we can do is get more rest. May God empower you to lead more from rest in this season, friend!
Thank you Michelle. I will be sharing this with my daughter. Mom of 5 and 2 are teenagers! She is constantly on the go. I was blessed to spend the month of August with them. As I look back, I realize I was constantly telling my grandkids:
“pick up after yourself”, “put away your clothes”, “did you clean up bathroom after your shower?” I was also constantly asking Krissy “what can I do to help you” Do you need anything” “do you want me to fold the clothes”… as if they did nothing!!!
I realize as I read your post today. What mattered most to her was that they as a family rested. Chilled. Played with their dog. Laughed when a visiting friend told a story or showed a funny picture. Squabbled about what Mom cooked, but still ate together.
Guess who needs to chill??? Hello? Yep me….hahahaha
Janet my poor sight had me thinking you had written “…prayed with their dog.” I think I’m going to start praying with our dog when I get him wound up playing! The slow down will be good for both of us! Sight issues giving vision. ;~)
haha I’m sure sometimes our dogs need prayer too 🙂
Oh, this is soooo good! This is such a reminder, especially since so many of us want to just love on and care for our people. And sometimes the best way to love our people isn’t to stay busy for them, but to rest with them. Thanks for spelling this out. I know we all need to hear this!
This strikes a chord. “But I now respond to them from a place of rest…” Yes. This. Thank you!
Hi, Pearl! I’m so glad this resonates! May you you lead from rest, friend <3
Michelle,
Life can get busy especially when raising children. Society does not make it any easier. They seem to yell do, go, strive more. The problem is that in the end we get frazzled & our families get the brunt of it. My weeks are rushed with church, working 4o+ hrs.in 4 days, volunteering, & grocery shopping. This week I had a doctor’s appointment on Friday (my week day off) then went shopping, put groceries away & went to volunteer with Loaves & Fishes Food Bank. After working my long week & doing all that I decided to rest on Saturday. I cooked some chili & have been home enjoying alone time. Lysa Terkeurst said it best in her book Your Best Yes “Saying yes to everyone & everything won’t make you wonder woman. It will make you a frazzled woman with nothing left to give.” Saying “YES” to a slower paced Christ Centered day.
Blessings 🙂