40-Day Challenge: Fun! (Day 10)

Begin with the Prayer of Abandonment.

St. Raphaela Porras, a Spanish nun who founded the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, would say to her sisters, “Have a good appetite. God does not want His spouses to look as though He fed them on lizards.”  This bit of saintly wisdom is a timely reminder for married couples, too. We all need to break free of our “serious” adult responsibilities and have some FUN!  A snowball or marshmallow fight, picnic in the park, or spontaneous night under the stars (don’t forget the harmonicas and S’mores) can be a welcome distraction at the end of a long day.

While it’s important for families to have fun together, from time to time it’s also good to recharge our batteries with the occasional “Girl’s Night” or “Boy’s Night”out. It doesn’t have to be expensive — though it might take a little planning and forethought if you haven’t done it in a while.  Sure, your husband is your favorite company . . . but other godly friendships can offer encouragement, support, and a fresh perspective.  

Today’s challenge:  Surprise him!  Invite his best friend over for dinner, or get him tickets to a game or concert he would love (send him with the friend if it’s not your cup of tea). If it’s been a while since you last had fun together, capture him for an unexpected weekend getaway.  Short on funds? Take a bubble bath together, or sip wine under the stars.

Today’s prayer:  Blessed Trinity, bound together in a never-ending circle of love, you understand the needs of the human heart for godly companionship. Help me to be generous and supportive of my husband’s friends — including those I find hard to love.