We have more leisure than any people before in the history of the world, and we need it because, for many of us, our lives are so hectic and tiring. Fortunately, for most of us, there’s a different pace in summer. Many of us take breaks from our usual routines. We tend to enjoy more hospitality in summer as our spirits are especially receptive to God’s deep desire for us to know divine love. We see long-lost friends, go to family reunions, and may even travel. We see how beautiful life can be, and how God breaks into our world with signs of love for us.
Keeping Sunday holy throughout the year is a good habit to cultivate. Like summer celebrations and special occasions, Sunday can be used to take a break from the daily grind, worship God, relax in his presence, and find refreshment as we prepare for the week ahead.
Instead of thinking it a duty to keep holy the Sabbath (Sunday), view it as a gift from God. Treasure it as a source of renewal and restoration. Jesus wants to spend unhurried, leisurely time with us so that he can minister to us. Let him provide you with the grace you need to accomplish all that he is calling you to do in the next six days. Sunday is an invitation to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection with our parish family at Mass. It’s also an invitation to reconnect with family and friends, enjoy some recreation, or to just curl up with a good book. Embrace the gift of Sunday.