Creating Space for Sabbath: Finding Rest as a Family
In the busyness of family life, true rest can feel like a luxury - something we’ll get to someday when schedules calm down. But what if rest wasn’t just a nice idea but an essential rhythm for our families to thrive?
Sabbath isn’t about adding another task to your to-do list; it’s an invitation to pause, breathe, and reconnect with God, with ourselves, and with each other. Whether your family is navigating the early years of parenting, managing the chaos of school schedules, or adjusting to new life stages, finding moments of rest can be both a challenge and a gift.
Recently, we invited parents to reflect on what Sabbath could look like in their homes. Through guided questions and open discussions, families explored the meaning of rest in their current season of life and considered practical ways to embrace Sabbath in a way that feels life-giving.
We’d love to extend that same invitation to you! Below are some reflection questions to consider - whether on your own, with your spouse, or in conversation with your kids. There’s no right or wrong way to approach this, just a chance to pause and think about how rest fits into your family’s faith journey.
Reflection Questions
Personal Questions - Before diving into a group or family discussion, take a moment to reflect on your own rhythms of rest.
What season of life is your family currently in, and how does it impact your ability to create moments of rest? (Consider the specific needs, routines, and challenges your family faces.)
How do you currently prioritize rest and downtime in your weekly schedule? (What rhythms have you established, and where do you feel tension in making time for rest?)
What does the concept of Sabbath mean to you, and how has it changed as your family has grown or transitioned through different life stages? (Has your understanding of rest evolved as you’ve entered new seasons?)
How do you think rest and Sabbath can help strengthen your family’s spiritual and emotional health (What long-term impact do you believe it has on your family’s well-being?)
Family Questions - Once you've reflected personally, consider discussing these questions as a family.
How does our family define “rest,” and in what ways do we intentionally prioritize it in your weekly routine?
What are some challenges our family faces when trying to slow down or practice Sabbath rest?
(Are the biggest barriers external obligations, internal expectations, or something else?)How do we balance the demands of work, school, and extracurricular activities with the need for rest as a family?
What are some practical ways our family could incorporate more moments of stillness or reflection throughout the week?
Next Steps: Bringing Sabbath Into Your Home
After reflecting and discussing, think about one or two small, attainable steps your family can take to create intentional moments of rest each week. Sabbath doesn’t have to be a full day of silence or inactivity -it can be as simple as:
A weekly family meal with no screens or distractions
A short walk together after dinner to slow down and reconnect
A “Sabbath basket” of books, art, or quiet activities for kids to enjoy during a restful hour
Setting aside Sunday mornings or evenings as sacred family time
Want more ideas and resources? Our family ministry team has put together practical tools to help your family embrace Sabbath in a way that fits your life. Click here to explore them!