Daily Gospel Reflection for July 18, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

While raising seven children close in age, I thought there was no time for a rest. Eventually, the commandment to “Observe the sabbath day--keep it holy, as the Lord, your God, commanded you” (Deuteronomy 5:12) convicted me. I wanted to obey the Lord, so, I put on a positive attitude. I would jokingly say, "On Sundays, we do not even make a bed or flush the toilets. We take a rest!”

I tried and failed. How can someone fail at resting? Most moms would jump at the chance for some rest and relaxation, but not this Energizer bunny, perfectionist mom! I might have been a fan if there had been eight days a week, but I was subtracting a day instead of adding a day.

I brought my concerns before my Heavenly Father. Father, I explained, I have seven loads of laundry a day. If I keep the Sabbath, Monday morning greets me with a whopping fourteen loads. I counted.

It became impossible for me to keep up. With the help of God, I modified my Sabbath rest. I kept both the Sabbath and the laundry going on Sunday.

This scripture showed me there may be exceptions to a rule. God says, “I am the Lord even of the Sabbath.” Moms, meeting your family's needs on the Sabbath and keeping your peace is a significant aspect of your vocation. I learned never to point fingers at others who do not live the scriptures like I do. Your Heavenly Father knows what is best for you.

For many years, I did not understand the Sabbath as a gift. Now, as an empty nester, I treasure my Sabbath rest. I would not miss it for the world!

Ponder:

Have you discovered what a gift from your Heavenly Father keeping the Sabbath is ?

Pray:

Dear Father, thank You for the gift of the Sabbath. Please teach me how to modify my Sundays to serve my family, rest in You, and honor You. Help me to recognize that my Father knows best.

CM DGR daily sq