Embracing Interruptions: Finding Joy in Unexpected Moments

In the middle of a busy life, routines can feel like lifelines—especially when raising young kids. I remember when my youngest son was in kindergarten and he had his afternoon routine down to a science: socks off, hands washed, snack, then a favorite video while he waited for his older brother to come home from middle school.

But there was one day when that predictable rhythm was interrupted—in the best way.

I was on the couch, resting from a full, hectic day, when he wandered over instead of staying in his room. Without a word, he climbed into my lap, laid his head on my chest, and gave me one of those quiet, deep hugs that only little ones can give. When I asked if he was skipping his show, he simply said:

“Momma, I just want to spend time with you.”

So that’s what we did. No distractions. No background noise. Just time.

A mother and son sit together, gazing into the distance, with a quote from Psalm 103:13 overlayed, reflecting on compassion and connection.

It would’ve been easy to miss that moment—to redirect him to his usual routine or savor a few minutes of quiet for myself. But had I done that, I would’ve missed the real gift: a moment of peace, stillness, and grace straight from God’s heart to mine.

Now, years later, I find myself in a new season—one where the house is quieter, and those spontaneous cuddles have become memories. But I hold them close, reminders that sometimes, breaking the routine is exactly where God meets us.

“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.” – Psalm 103:13 (ESV)

Even now, in this later season of life, God still invites us to pause — to intentionally set aside our plans for a moment and say, “I just want to spend time with You.”

What unexpected moment could become sacred today if you simply made space for it?

Journaling Prompt:
Think of a time when someone unexpectedly interrupted your routine—was it a child, a friend, a moment of peace, or even God whispering for your attention?

How did you respond?
What did you notice or learn in that moment?
How can you stay more open to those quiet invitations in this season of life?

Disclosure: Scriptures marked ESV are taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, ENGLISH STANDARD
VERSION (ESV): Scriptures taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Used by permission.