Features - Rest

Nan was getting ready for a normal kind of weekend. She’s lucky enough to live in the same area with her daughter, but even still, she doesn’t see her that often. They both live busy lives. Nan is the go-to-gal for her church and three other charitable causes. Her daughter, Lizzie, is a typical twenty-something; heavily focus on her career, fun and seeing to it that her Mr. Right is happy.

Lizzie texted her mother: “Comin to burbs, wanna hang out w U.”
Nan replied: “U R on :)”

With a prayer to the One responsible for weekends, mothers, and daughters, Nan found herself preparing for the simple pleasure of enjoying the company of someone she loves. It’s not about just making sure she has soy milk in the house, getting out her walking shoes, or cuing up a chick flick. Getting ready for the weekend means thanking God for companionship, relaxation and the time to enjoy the truly holy— her own family.

- Susan Diamond

Seventh Day

The greeting cards lie.
They put words to what is unsayable.
You alone know how I see her:
She is seven feet tall,
a monolith, all-powerful.

Still, she is tiny and fragile—
a strong gust could part us—
and I cannot think of losing her.
Tell her for me.
I trust You.
Tell her how much I love her,
how our closeness awes me,
so that I hardly know where she ends
and where I begin.

Oh, and pour Your protection over her.
Keep her healthy, safe and strong.
But most of all, please help me thank her.
After all, it was she who brought You and me together.

- Lori Strawn

"What’s your favorite way to spend your day of rest?"