Sundays. For some, it’s a day of rest. For others, it’s a day filled with dread for the upcoming week. But for many, Sunday is a day of rejuvenation, connection, and reflection, offering a unique opportunity to recharge and reconnect with what truly matters. This resonates deeply with Craig Morgan’s song, “What I Love About Sundays,” painting a picture of Sundays filled with simple joys and meaningful moments. While I may not be a country music aficionado, the sentiment rings true. Sundays are meant to be savored.
The Heart of Sunday: Community and Connection
When asked what they loved about Sundays, my children’s answers revolved around one central theme: church. For my eight-year-old daughter, it’s about seeing friends and engaging in Sunday School. My six-year-old cherishes sharing communion with me. My ten-year-old appreciates the community and, surprisingly, enjoys my sermons! Their shared love for Sundays stems from a love for the sense of belonging and connection found within our church community.
However, I recognize that this isn’t everyone’s experience. For many, Sundays were once associated with boredom, obligation, or even conflict. Memories of forced family outings, endless chores, or the chaotic rush to get ready for church can overshadow the potential for joy and spiritual nourishment.
Rethinking Sunday: Purpose and Meaning
We often associate different days with specific activities: school for education, work for income, the gym for health, the mall for shopping. But what about church? Why dedicate a precious day off to getting up early, dressing up, and navigating crowded parking lots? Why bother with church at all?
Statistics reveal a disconnect: while a significant portion of Americans identify as Christian, regular church attendance is far lower. Some view church as an unnecessary burden, a wasted hour, or a way to appease others. Some see it as a perfunctory ritual, a way to earn favor with a higher power.
Finding Joy in the Sabbath: The Psalmist’s Perspective
But for those who understand its true purpose, church can be the most fulfilling and inspiring part of the week. If Sundays aren’t a highlight, perhaps we’re missing something. Psalm 122 offers a powerful perspective. David, the psalmist, expresses genuine joy and anticipation at the prospect of going to the house of the Lord. He doesn’t see it as a chore but as a privilege.
He “rejoiced” at the invitation to worship. Why this enthusiasm? What did David understand that many miss today? He understood the transformative power of communal worship, the strength found in fellowship, and the peace that comes from connecting with the divine. He found in the house of the Lord: praise, community, and peace. When these elements are present, Sunday truly becomes a day of joy and renewal.
Embracing the Sunday Spirit
Sundays hold the potential to be so much more than just another day of the week. By embracing the spirit of community, seeking spiritual nourishment, and prioritizing connection, we can transform Sundays into a source of joy, rejuvenation, and lasting meaning. Let us rediscover the joy David found in worshipping together and make Sundays the best day of the week.
