Solo Parent's Saturday: Grace for the Journey
- Dr. Layne McDonald
- Jan 27
- 5 min read
Saturday morning hits different when you're doing it solo.
Maybe the kids are already awake before the sun, asking for pancakes while you're still trying to remember what day it is. Maybe you're staring down a long stretch of hours wondering how you'll fill them: and whether you'll have anything left in the tank by bedtime.
If that's you today, take a breath. You're seen. You're not forgotten. And you are deeply, fiercely loved by God.
Welcome home, friend. This one's for you.
You're Not Alone in This
Here's the truth that Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald reminds our Boundless family often: God never intended for you to carry this weight by yourself.
Solo parenting: whether through divorce, loss, deployment, work schedules, or any other circumstance: is one of the most demanding roles anyone can take on. And Saturdays? They can feel especially long when the structure of school and routine disappears, and it's just you holding everything together.
But here's what Scripture tells us:
"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." : Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
He's not distant. He's not disappointed. He's close. Right there in the chaos of cereal spills and sibling arguments and your own exhaustion.
Your Biblical Affirmation for Today:
"In my weakness, God is able. His strength is made perfect in my limitations. I am equipped, empowered, and never alone."
Say that out loud. Let it sink in. Because it's true.
5 Practical Ways to Navigate Your Saturday with Grace
We believe in practical faith here at Boundless: the kind that meets you in the mess and helps you move forward. So let's talk real strategies for making your Saturday manageable (and maybe even enjoyable).
1. Break the Day Into Manageable Chunks
Staring down 12+ hours can feel overwhelming. Instead, think in blocks:
Morning block: Breakfast and an activity (park, playground, backyard play)
Midday block: Lunch and quiet time (even if "quiet" means a movie while you breathe)
Afternoon block: One outing or creative activity
Evening block: Dinner, bath, bedtime routine
Small wins add up. You don't have to make every moment magical: you just have to make it through, and that's enough.
2. Choose One "Energy Burner" Activity
Kids with pent-up energy make everything harder. A physically demanding playground, a nature walk, or even dancing in the living room can work wonders. Tired kids often mean easier afternoons and better naps.
Pro tip: Pack snacks and water so you can stay out longer without a meltdown (theirs or yours).
3. Build Your Village: Even Digitally
Connection matters. If you don't have family nearby or friends available, consider:
Inviting another solo parent over for a simple potluck and co-babysitting
Joining an online community where you can share, vent, and encourage each other
Connecting with our Boundless groups: we have spaces specifically for parents navigating tough seasons
You weren't designed to do life isolated. Reach out. Someone is waiting to walk alongside you.
4. Release the Perfectionism
Unless you genuinely enjoy cleaning, let the mess wait. Seriously.
The laundry will still be there tomorrow. The dishes aren't going anywhere. But your mental health and your connection with your kids? Those matter more than a spotless house.
Give yourself permission to prioritize people over productivity today.
5. Carve Out 15 Minutes Just for You
This isn't selfish: it's survival. Whether it's:
A short walk around the block
A cup of coffee enjoyed hot (a miracle, we know)
A few minutes of prayer or Scripture reading
Simply sitting in silence while the kids are occupied
You matter. Your wellbeing directly impacts your ability to show up for your family. Fill your cup, even a little.
What God Sees When He Looks at You
Here's what you might be telling yourself:
"I'm failing my kids."
"Other parents have it more together."
"I should be able to handle this better."
Here's what God says:
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." : Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
He doesn't see your failures. He sees your faithfulness. Every diaper changed, every meal prepared, every tear wiped, every bedtime prayer whispered: He sees it all. And He calls it good.
You are not a disappointment. You are a warrior doing sacred work.
A Saturday Rhythm for Your Family
Want a simple framework to try? Here's a gentle Saturday rhythm that balances activity, rest, and connection:
Time | Activity | Purpose |
8:00 AM | Breakfast together | Connection |
9:30 AM | Outdoor play or park | Energy release |
12:00 PM | Lunch + quiet time | Rest and reset |
2:00 PM | Creative activity (crafts, baking, building) | Engagement |
4:00 PM | Screen time or audiobook | Downtime for both of you |
5:30 PM | Dinner prep together | Teamwork |
7:00 PM | Bath, books, bedtime | Winding down |
Adjust as needed. Some days will go smoothly; others will fall apart by 10 AM. Both are okay. Grace covers all of it.
You Have a Home Here
At Boundless Online Church, we understand that not everyone can make it to a physical church building every Sunday. Life is complicated. Schedules are demanding. And sometimes, you just need a faith community that meets you where you are: on your phone, in your living room, at 2 AM when the baby won't sleep.
That's what we're here for.
Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald founded Boundless with a simple vision: No one should ever feel forgotten, alone, or unloved. Whether you're a solo parent, a night-shift worker, someone recovering from hurt, or simply searching for a place to belong: you have a home here.
We offer:
24/7 live chat and pastoral support
Groups for every season of life (including parenting communities!)
Bible studies, blogs, and podcasts to fuel your faith
Volunteer and leadership training if you want to serve others
A prayer and praise board where your burdens are carried by a global family
And here's the best part: Membership is always free. No pressure. No spam. Just love.
Your Next Step
If today's words resonated with you, don't walk away and forget them. Take one small step:
Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org and explore what we offer
Join a group that fits your life stage: you'll find others who truly understand
Reach out via chat, call, or text: we're here for you, anytime
Use our ZIP/country search to find a physical church near you if you're ready for in-person connection (we'll even provide a VIP handoff to help you feel welcomed)
You don't have to figure this out alone. We're family now.
From Pastor Dr. Layne McDonald and the entire Boundless team:
Solo parent, you are doing holy work. The hard days don't define you: your faithfulness does. Keep going. Keep trusting. Keep leaning into the One who never lets go.
Never forgotten. Never alone. Deeply loved by God.
AI 24/7 Assistant: 1-901-668-5380 Boundless Phone: 1-901-213-7341 FA Memphis: 1-901-843-8600 lmcdonald@famemphis.net - www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
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