Shabbat (Sabbath)

I work well with deadlines and breaks.

I work better with timelines than project lines.

So Shabbat is absolutely amazing for me.

We learned this about me when I was in school.  

I was homeschooled.  And there were two types of motivations my mom could offer:

1. If you get your math done, you can go outside.

or 

2. If you get as much done as possible before noon, you can go outside.

I did much better with the latter.  I don't know why.  But, with the first option, I had a tendency to drag the math out forever, all the while pouting over the fact that my entire day was disappearing while I worked slowly.  With the second option, it felt like a challenge with a secure reward.  I could throw everything into getting my math done, knowing that I wouldn't have to keep up the pace all day.  I knew I would get my fun at a set time.

That is what Shabbat is like for me.

Shabbat is still relatively new, so I will freely admit that some weeks are "failures."

But, here's what happens when Shabbat works right.

I kick into high gear to get ready.  It's fun.  I'm motivated.  I get more done in the 24 hours of preparation than I got done all week.  The house gets cleaned.  Food is prepared.  Laundry is finished.  I am on a roll!

I have a deadline (sundown on Friday) so it's like I'm racing the clock.  A glance at my watch helps me plan and gauge my progress through the day.  Each hour ticks off with accomplishments on my to-do list, feeling like a reward in and of itself.

And at the end?

Rest.

Twenty-four hours of guilt-free rest.

My work is done -- I don't feel like I'm being lazy.

Preparations have been made -- we're not going to starve or go without clean clothes.  I'm not embarrassed if someone comes by and sees the state of my house.

From a housewife's perspective, it's the most amazing 24 hours ever.

When you add to that the spiritual significance of setting aside the time to honor God, 

it truly makes Shabbat the best time of the whole week.

Ahhh.

(Sigh of contentment).