Homeschool moms are wonderfully notorious in their ability to turn even the most minute occurrence into a teachable moment. While following rabbit trails and interests is a great way to learn, it can also lead to burnout.
In the Old Testament, God established holidays through the year. It’s a time to rest, relax and recharge. God himself also worked for 6 days and rested on the 7th. While we should make use of the opportunities as they arise, we also should be just as eager for rest. This is not to say that you shouldn’t teach and educate your children about holidays. It’s always a good thing to discover their origin and why we do what we do. But there needs to be some balance. It isn’t necessary to do a unit study for each and every holiday that comes along. Pick and choose throughout a given year. And remember that sometimes what’s best for the family is just to kick off your shoes and enjoy the day. Partake in the festivities and enjoy one another’s company. Have fun!
The Bible says some pretty specific things about rest:
Matthew 11:28-29“…Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Mark 6:3 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Psalms 55:6 And I say, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest
Genesis 2:2-3 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.
Exodus 23:12 Six days you shall work, and on the seventh day you shall rest: your ox and your donkey may rest, and the son of your servant, and the stranger, may be refreshed.
So this year when you are feeling the need to do what everybody else is doing, take a step back! Slow down and enjoy the holidays with your family with the goal of feeling refreshed.
