When We're AngrySýnishorn

Sabbath is a day set aside each week to experience the fullness of God’s shalom. Many families attend church, rest, and delight in God’s creation. Many parents, though, find it hard to rest and delight when we are raising young children.

While Sabbath is a commandment, God did not institute it as an onerous obligation. As Jesus reminds us in Mark 2, the Sabbath was made for us. Rather than berating yourself for all the ways you think you are falling short on keeping the Sabbath, you might embrace one small moment of God’s shalom with your family.

Since you’ve been learning to welcome Jesus into the reality of your life as it is, why not try a simple Sabbath activity with your children—one where they can welcome God into their big feelings.

We’ve created a kids’ version of Welcoming Prayer that your whole family can pray.

I want to feel safe.

Welcome, Jesus, welcome.

I want to feel special.

Welcome, Jesus, welcome.

I want to be the boss.

Welcome, Jesus, welcome.

I wish things were better.

Welcome, Jesus, welcome.

Our children are in the early stages of identifying their emotions and sharing them with God. When our children are melting down, resisting us, or fighting with each other, their primal desires for safety, love, and agency often lie at the root of their anger. This prayer acknowledges those desires and welcomes Jesus into their experiences and feelings. Trusting Jesus to show up, we don’t have to judge or talk them out of their desires.

It’s okay for our children to take baby steps in what will become a lifelong journey of letting Jesus into their lives. Many of us need those baby steps as well, so pray it as a family! Welcome, Jesus, welcome.