Put Sunday on Your Calendar First
By J.J. Bland, Director of Chapel Hill Preschool
As summer begins to wind down, I always reach that moment when reality settles in. The slower pace, spontaneous backyard barbecues, late-night teen gatherings around the fire pit, and unhurried evenings are coming to an end. Our preschool teachers are already stopping by their classrooms, decorating bulletin boards, organizing supplies, and prayerfully preparing to welcome a new group of children. The anticipation of a new school year brings both excitement and the understanding that life is about to become much fuller.
As both an educator and a mom, my life naturally follows the rhythm of the school year. January 1 has never quite felt like the beginning of a new year to me—the first day of school does. While part of me wishes I had accomplished more during these slower summer days or could somehow stretch this season just a little longer, another part of me is eager to begin filling my Outlook calendar with all that fall brings. Sports practices, tournaments, school events, work commitments, hikes, family gatherings, and countless other responsibilities quickly begin finding their place.
As I recently began filling in my fall calendar, I noticed something that convicted me.
Sunday morning worship wasn’t there.
It wasn’t blocked out with the same intention as sports practices or tournament weekends. It didn’t have its own brightly colored block like the first day of school or an important work meeting. It was simply… absent.
That realization reminded me of something Jesus said:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
If I’m honest, I know myself well enough to realize that if something doesn’t make it onto my calendar, I begin to treat it as optional—something I can choose if nothing else comes up, something that can quietly be canceled or postponed without much thought.
But worship isn’t optional.
Gathering with God’s people, hearing his Word preached, singing his praises, receiving encouragement, and encouraging others are not simply activities we fit into our schedules. They are rhythms God has given us because he knows how desperately we need him. Worship reorients our hearts before another busy week begins. It reminds us who is truly in control when our calendars become full.
So this year, Sunday at 10:00 am has its own bright color on my calendar.
It is marked Busy.
Not because God needs an appointment with me, but because I need that appointment with him.
As we all begin filling our calendars with school schedules, practices, meetings, and commitments, may we first make room for what matters most. Before we prioritize everything we have to do, let’s intentionally prioritize the One who holds every one of our days.
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)
J.J.