Well, friends, we have entered into what is quite possibly the most busy, stressful, and chaotic time of the year. Interestingly enough, it is also most of our favorite time of the year, and spiritually speaking, it is one of the best times of the year as we prepare to remember and celebrate Emmanuel, God with us.
Funny, isn’t it, how Christmastime can be all of those things wrapped up into one big, red bow? Somewhere amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, I can’t help but wonder if we’ve lost our way. You see, the normal pace of life doesn’t decrease in this busy season. Most of our day-to-days are already busier than we can seem to manage, and then as icing on the cake, we add to it the craziness that ensues the day after Thanksgiving. What was meant to be a season of preparing our minds, our hearts, and our homes for the Christ child has become a frantic chasing after an endless list of to dos.
What if we moved against the flow of traffic this year? What if we silenced the voice of urgency that propels us into the madness and busyness of this season? What if we embraced rest during one of the least restful times of year?
Here’s my invitation to you this December, a 30-day challenge, really. Would you join me in “Rest”—30 days of exploring God’s invitation to us in His Word to come and find rest in Him?
Just over a month ago, I published my third book, and it couldn’t have been more timely in my own life. Even though I wrote it, I have found myself saying again and again, “I can’t wait to go through it myself and actually apply it to my life.” I need to practice rest. You too?
I’m not sure if you realized this (I had pretty much forgotten it all together), but God commanded us to rest in His Word. It’s not a suggestion. It’s not a recommendation for our well-being. It’s a command. Still, how many of us go without it? It’s time, my friends, to direct our attention and our gaze back to this simple yet powerful principle—Sabbath, margin, rest.
So, will you join me? Starting tomorrow, December 30th, I’m inviting you to join me in this 30-day devotional “Rest” and to embrace something that has become so counter-cultural, especially during this time of year. If you don’t already have a copy of “Rest,” you can purchase one here.
Get ready for some refreshment, restoration, and renewing as you dive into these pages with me. God’s Word is life-giving. It brings strength to our weary souls. It revives us.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
So, who’s with me?
I’m with you Cherie! I have my copy and — I already started it! I think the timing couldn’t be better. I hope your friends and mine will join us!
I’m ready! Already previewed the first day last night but excited to jump in today.