Sunday, March 22, 2009

Day of Rest

It's no secret to Christians that Sunday is intended as a day of rest. Some of the faithful observe this "time out" day because the Bible tells us God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh, and then turned around and told His people to Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

That said, my parents were always strict about the day of rest bit. We didn't go out to eat on Sunday. We didn't have sleepovers or go anywhere... just to church and back home. Mom would make a huge Sunday lunch and we'd eat and then pass out on the couch or the floor and watch football - or baseball - whatever was on, with my Dad. We'd talk Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers and yell for Troy Aikman or Nolan Ryan until my Mom would rouse and hush us all, reminding us it was time to rest. Evening saw me and my four brothers and sister piling back into the car for a 7 p.m. church service, after which we headed back home and ate burritos. Every Sunday night we had burritos. I still remember Dad frying the refried beans in a little skillet on the stove while Mom made iced tea and one of us kids would grate cheese or slice tomatoes or pour salsa. One those those childhood memories I'll keep forever.

Although I still eat burritos on Sunday nights, I've gotten away from the day of rest bit as an adult. Too many things to do, you know, and experience. I mean, I'm pressed enough for time as it is, so lying back and resting on a Sunday seems unproductive (at best) and downright lazy (at worst). But in ignoring (disobeying) a clear command, I'm shooting myself in the foot. God knows we need a day of rest. For body and spirit. I think He told us to remember our Sabbath days because He knew how busy, stressed, burned out and exhausted we'd get the rest of the week.

Opening henrybella's has made me reconsider my Sundays. Aside from church, will they be a day of rest, or a day just like all the others?

I was still kicking the idea around two weeks ago when I (finally) went to get my haircut. This time I tried a new hairstylist, Jeanette, and appreciated her encouragement as we discussed the sweet shop and my plans for business. When she asked about which days and hours I'd be open, I hesitated. Well, I teach Sunday School and go to church on Sunday, but it sure would be profitable if I could figure out a way to be open later on Sundays.

Jeanette's scissors paused in the air and she leaned in over my shoulder. Look at it this way, she said, softly. You can either think about money, or you can think about Who your money comes from.

Turns out Jeanette is a preacher's wife, something I didn't know when I scheduled an appointment with her. And those words have stayed with me all week... that I can either think about money, or I can think about Who my money comes from.

My hours, then, are Tuesday through Saturday. Sunday I'm resting, and Monday I'll shop and clean and pre-mix doughs, etc. That will be my week for the forseeable future.

So today's my first day to "rest". I think I'm going to fold some laundry and read a little. And maybe do some cleaning in the guest room (pictured here with pillow cases I just got from my grandmother) since I'll have a visitor here all week. Also think I'll start making THIS little pretty from Alicia's book. (I'm still trying to come up with safe, non-toxic, natural games and toys for children who come to henrybella's and need something to do while their mothers visit.)

Things are so peaceful here today. Think I could really get used to this whole day of rest bit again....

(Update: I didn't fold laundry. Instead, I spent a shameful hour online stalking Rob Pattinson and listening to his I Was Broken 15 times. Yeah, I realize I'm not 15 years old, but I have such a huge crush on this guy that I can't help it. *blush*)

31 comments:

Amy said...

Proud of you!

Tara said...

My daughter and I came to have a cupcake yesterday, but you were closed. :-(

I left you a card under the door. I will be back if you are opened on Saturdays. I teach during the week, so can't drive that far during the week.

It looks just like I thought it would. So proud for you. Get some rest. It does a body good.

martha said...

Today is my first time at your blog. So glad to have found you!

Let this grandma reassure you that God will bless you as you obey Him. This is what I've found to be true. Usually the blessings are quite wonderful. Sometimes they're just financial :)

Sissy said...

Glad you are taking a breather. Rest, relax and enjoy those burritos. Sounds yummy.

Rosa said...

We grew up with Sunday as a day of rest as well.
That meant no eating out or shopping because then we would be the reason the store owners had to work on Sundays.
Sunday was for going to church (twice) visiting family and friends and just relaxing. (Our Sunday dinner was Sunday soup)
As I grew up and times changed people began to find this more and more, well. . . odd.
After all, there are so many things to do. . .
Our minister explained it this way in a sermon a while back;
When God gave the Israelites this command it was at a time in history that required constant labour 7 days a week just to survive. By following this commandment the Israelites showed total faith that God would provide.

Being able to take time to settle in with a good book and leave work for another day, (guilt free)is an added bonus! :)
Enjoy your day of rest.

Old Centennial Farmhouse said...

First, let me say that your picture is just gorgeous...and I want to crawl in that bed and take a deep breath, close my eyes, and .... zzzz!

And, as for honoring Sundays, I think you'll be glad you did. I remember when I was a kid and before establishments of all kinds stayed open on Sundays, life seemed simpler then. I think it honors God so much when we trust him with this type of thing. Our ways are not his ways. He blesses obedience. You are such a sweet and thoughtful person, I know he'll honor this decision.

Linda Z said...

I know that God will honor your decision and you will feel so much better on Monday! :)

There's a company called "Melissa & Doug" that makes adorable wooden toys I think you'd really like! :)

Vee said...

It's good to know that you'll be taking a day to rest. Everyone needs at least that. Wishing you another wonderful week at Henrybella's.

Shelley in SC said...

Just watch how He blesses that decision!! Sure wish I could pop in and offer some time to help out . . . wipe tables, serve up a cup of coffee, play a game with little ones. Oooh, I'm just itching to be there experiencing all this with you!

Laurie said...

Brilliant on the hours. I was thinking that would be best for you to take sundays AND mondays off. (sorry, can't help it, old mode of fixing failing restaurants and chefs kicking in). Truly that day of renewal will enable you to do more during the week than working it could accomplish. And the quiet day of preparation without having to deal with the public will help your mind plan and organize for the week. It's very soothing to work in the quiet of the kitchen. You can try on all kinds of ideas and find fabulous ones that make your life easier.

Brenda@CoffeeTeaBooks said...

I LOVE what the hairdresser gave as advice.

Mrs. K said...

Just found your blog, it's adorable as is henrybella's. I will be praying for your shop and God will bless your decision to keep His sabbath commandment. As to the toys, I know you said you are broke but www.novanatural.com has some fabulous natural toys. While they are not cheap they are very sturdy, and I have 3 boys. Also, as a mother of 3 boys I can promise I would visit a lot more often with my boys in tow (which means more cupcake sales for you) if you had toys for them. The coffee shop I *love* to visit has a marble chess set. Or should I say had a marble chess set. Needless to say I don't visit there often. Blessings to you!

tara said...

I am totally worn out...so I understand what you are saying about the big time need for a day of rest. Actually, I do not remember the last time I had one. I have an 8 month old at home...he is a blessing but I do find myself needing 'me' time and 'reflection' time and not seeing where I can sneak it in. I like what your new hairstylist said. She has a great point. I also like that your parents nudged you and your siblings to savor that day of rest and not let other things crowd in like they so often do (even we we aren't looking for them!)... if only we could all embrace what God says about his burden being light ...if only I wasn't such an indian giver when I try to give him my burdens and not live life in my own strength. I guess it is a matter of trust, perhaps. Thanks for the reminder on the day of rest. Good for you on making your bakery hours only Tues-Sat! I truly believe God will honor that, too. Wishing you a productive week at the sweet shop!!
btw...sorry this comment was all over the place...can you tell I need some rest, too? ~GRIN~

Stickhorsecowgirls said...

How about just not taking the blog down, but downsizing? How about just a little update on Sun. evenings and a brief Sunday moment devotional? Wishing you the best on Henrybellas! My friend and I plan on visiting before too long! I agree completely on Sabbath rest. We are an EXHAUSTED people because we disobey this commandment!

Unknown said...

Brin, you need at least one day of rest and Sundays are perfect for that, your's are well deserved and earned. I loved your childhood memory of your Sundays, keep up the tradition. Hugs!

Candy said...

Brin, don't forget about your cookbook! Maybe you could work on it in your spare time (ha). So wonderful to see God's work in your life! Blessings, Candy

Feisty said...

Thanks for telling us the hours :) I had a feeling you'd be closed on Sundays, just wanted to check!

Have a great Monday!

Patsy from Illinois said...

Brin,
Thanks for the reminder about Sunday being a day of rest. I am also guilty of doing my laundry, house cleaning, yard mowing, etc. on Sundays. But you have reminded me that is the Lord's way of letting us slow down and listen for whispers from Him.

Could you print the recipe for your white farmhouse bread? I kept wanting to ask you but as usual, I forgot.

Capri K @ No Whining Allowed said...

Hi, I came over from Like Merchant Ships. I loved reading about the opening of your shop!
Our Bible study this year has been the books of Moses, and this Sabbath dilemma has come up on several occasions. It's a big change, but I am trying.
Blessing follows obedience.

Kim said...

It's wonderful to hear that Sundays are still being observed by some folks. It's also wonderful to hear the peace in your posts. God always has a plan.

HouseLewisFamily said...

I just recently found your blog and I just love it! I only wish I lived near you so I could visit your new shop (I live in Seattle). I helped a friend open a coffee shop this last year and I know first hand all of the work that goes into it. It sounds like you're doing a great job! All the best,
Kyla
www.houselewis.blogspot.com

Amanda said...

I'll second that crush on Rob and on having a day of rest...hehe..

Betty said...

Brin..I'm glad that you are taking a day of rest!
Wishing you all the best for a very successful business..

Joy said...

That hairdresser is very wise... like my friend down the street said (about resting on Sunday), "Isn't it nice to have a day that you're not expected to do anything?"

Marianna said...

O.K. I'm dying to visit Henrybella's! I'm guessing you are somewhere in North Texas...PLEASE tell me where as your sweets look positively heavenly!

BTW, I love your traditional Sunday burrito dinner. Only in Texas :)

Bethanie said...

I am SO happy for you about Henrybella's!!! Cupcake and cookie shops are some of my favorite things ever!! :)

I am in Dallas and I think I must not be that far from you, and I would love to come by. I cannot for the life of me figure out where you are though. Is there somewhere I can find the address to Henrybella's? Here is my e-mail:

bethanieh@gmail.com

Allonda said...

speechless. overwhelmingly happy for you. brought to tears. praise be to a sovereign GOD.

Ms. Beadle said...

Hi Brin. I don't remember how I one day came upon your blog, but I consider it a blessing in my life. I am old enough to be your mom (in fact, my first grandchild is due any moment) but we are kindred spirits. I was thinking how much I have enjoyed dreaming and praying along with you. Your gift for writing is a special blessing from God. I am sad that you are planning to end your blog. But I would not doubt that, if you are anything like me, you will find that you simply MUST write. You cannot survive without putting into writing the ideas and thoughts that dance in your mind. Giving up your blog will be like parting with an old and faithful friend. Take a break, rest a bit, re-focus and commit time to prayer and reading God's Word. Then, come back to us who dream along with you, so that we can lift those dreams to God in your behalf. I wish I was close and could visit your shop and see Freeman House. I am in the Phoenix area and teach school full time. But I am there in spirit! God bless you in the days ahead, as you make your dreams come true.

Kim said...

i stalked rob pattinson the other day too. i'm glad someone else is willing to admit it.

Bethanie said...

Hey, just realized you left your address in an earlier post. :) Thanks!!

The Chatty Housewife said...

I treat the Lord's day as a day to do as much for HIM as possible. So, because of that, sometimes it ends up being my busiest day of the week.