Interruptions as God's Work

As moms, it feels like interruptions are woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Whether we’re making dinner, folding laundry, or even sneaking a moment to ourselves, interruptions seem inevitable.

I’ll admit, interruptions used to drive me crazy—and, if I’m honest, they still do sometimes. Whether it’s my kids needing something or my husband wanting to chat, I’d feel my patience slipping away.

Part of my frustration stems from my ADHD. When my focus is broken, it’s like a bookmark falling out of a book; I have to flip through the pages to figure out where I left off. Dinner time was always the hardest. Just as I was juggling bubbling sauce, dirty dishes, and brother wrestling matches, my husband would decide it was the perfect moment for a deep conversation. I’d feel torn between the stove and the seriousness of his words.

Honestly, my reactions during these times haven’t always been the best. When I have too many spinning plates, I get overwhelmed. It’s hard for me to cook dinner and have a meaningful conversation at the same time. Instead of lovingly asking if we could table the conversation, I’d see the interruptions as obstacles keeping me from completing the task at hand.

A Wake Up Call

One day, I came across a quote by Henry J.M. Nouwen, shared by the amazing author Hannah Brencher:"I have always been complaining that my work was constantly interrupted; then I realized that the interruptions are my work."

That quote stopped me in my tracks. It was a wake-up call, a gentle nudge to see interruptions in a completely new light.

Seeing Interruptions as God's Work

The interruptions of my husband talking to me are my work as a wife. The boys interrupting my phone call or my writing are my work as a mom. My friend calling in the morning asking for a ride is my work as a friend.

Interruptions can show up in many ways throughout our day. If we are honest, some may be welcome interruptions and others not so much. Maybe its the person in the store asks for our opinion or asks for help reaching an item on the top shelf. (Okay, let's be real- I'm usually the one asking for help with the top shelf items!) Or perhaps a friend of ours or our child's friend stops by unexpectedly just as we're in the middle of tackling a task. Someone may call for our help on the way to work or ask for money to help during a difficult time. These moments, though unplanned, are opportunities that will help others see Christ through our responses—if we handle them with care.

A Reminder to Be Interruptible

The quote from Nouwen, reminded me of a message I once heard from Pastor Steven Gibbs of Stonecreek Church in Georgia. He encouraged us to be interruptible. In those moments, God is working. We can’t always see what He’s doing, but there is always a reason.

We are often so focused on our tasks that we miss the opportunity God gives us to be a light in someone else’s life. I had forgotten about that message until I saw Nouwen's quote. Apparently, this is a trend with me; I tend to forget the lessons God teaches me. I’m so thankful that He is merciful and willing to teach me over and over again.

Embracing Interruptions

Today, take a moment to pause and reflect: Have you ever seen interruptions in your life as opportunities for God’s work? I’d love to hear your stories!