Unfortunately, it is getting more and more difficult for my mother to attend Mass. This morning I decided to meet my son for the early Mass while my sister stayed with my mom. It had been a long time since I had been out early on a Sunday morning. There was little traffic and I noticed that the cars that were on the road had stickers and license plates of a religious nature. I imagined everyone was going to or coming from church and all had this connection. I also saw a few people walking, wearing their Sunday best. I figured they must have also been coming from or going to church. When I arrived at the church, the parking lot was packed. When I entered the church, I saw dozens of children wearing their white First Communion dresses, veils, and suits. They processed in and placed flowers at the base of the statue of Mary. Then they sat in the pews with their families. It was beautiful to watch them receive the Sacrament for the first time. Some of them were very excited, some were nervous, some were a little unsure as to what to do, one little girl was crying, as was one little boy. I wasn’t sure if it was because they were emotional from receiving Jesus, or from the overall experience, or if they were upset about something. After Mass, the families were all very excited offering congratulations and presents and taking pictures. I was glad I was able to go and see the enthusiasm and joy. Back at home, my mother did not feel well enough to go to church, so later in the day we watched the celebration on TV. Then I spent much of the afternoon resting. To me, this was how a Sunday should be – connecting with God and family, and resting from the endless work. This is how I rejuvenate for the upcoming week. And this is what God says we should do in Exodus 23:12:
“For six days you may do your work, but on the seventh day you must rest…”

I Found God today celebrating Sunday.