Radio Interview Media Notes:
This past weekend in the Gospel, we heard Jesus inviting us to “rest for a while“:
The apostles gathered together with Jesus and reported all they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” (Mark 6:31)
The key to this passage from the Gospel is “a while.” The Lord knows that we get tired and need a moment to rest and be renewed. The question is, how can your leisure bring you closer to Christ?
Pro-Tips for Parents
1. As you Prepare for your summer Vacation to be also an opportunity of faith and Rest
-Talk to your children about expectations for vacation: Ensure your family has a faith component. Plan where and when you will go to Mass, special outings, or times to pray like the Rosary. Schedule time for rest such as down-time to enjoy the local parks, beach time, evening walks and even campfires and star watching!
2. Bring Jesus Along on Your Vacation
-Consider bringing a prayer card or holy image:Place it in hotels or travel homes to keep you grounded and remind you of our Lord and Savior. Don’t get to your hotel and or resort and realize that you left a picture of your best friend at home. Bring a prayer card of the Sacred Heart as a loving reminder who whom to thank for not only your time away but each and every breath we have on earth.
3. Strengthen Family Relationships: Such As
Unplug and Connect:
– Plan spontaneous trips to the ice cream shop or pool.
– Create family memories through activities like a sunset Rosary or attending Mass together.
Recommit to Family Prayer:
– Daily family prayer, even if it’s just a prayer of thanksgiving for the day’s blessings, can be powerful. Commit to the Daily Rosary.
Marriage Date Night:
– Schedule a weekly date night with your spouse or even just a nice drive or walk at the end of the day.
Meaningful Projects:
– Engage in meaningful projects, whether acts of mercy or home improvement tasks.
4. Connect with Nature
Don’t miss out on the beautiful that surrounds you!
5. Most Importantly, Even Moms and Dads Need Rest!
– Even parents need a moment of rest! If you haven’t scheduled this into your routine, consider asking for help. Try getting up earlier or going to bed a bit later to have a few minutes to yourself. The key to rest is making sure it is beneficial and renewing.
6. Cultivate Holy Friendships
– Carve out time to cultivate more Christ-centered relationships: Holy friendship is important for spiritual growth and support.
7. Remember, Don’t let vacation and summer fun “Break YOUR Bank Account:
– There are many ways you can enjoy the long days of summer like going to the pool, nature walks, or just camping in your backyard.
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Let us live fully, pray hard, and rest so that we can embrace the joys and sorrows of life with grace, virtue, and dignity. What does your idea of holy rest look like? What components would it include, like maybe a nap? Let’s embrace this season as a time for spiritual renewal and deeper connection with God and our loved ones.
