Get up. Then maybe there’s laundry or dishes. Maybe a few minutes to read, or maybe not. A few thoughts pass through…

“…who has practice today? Is that 9:00 AM meeting today? Oh yeah, pull meat out of the freezer for dinner. What time is it? Is anyone out of bed yet?”

Gentile nudging. “Time to wake up. Time to get ready for school.” Groan.
Then, maybe some not-so-gentle nudging.
“I know, I’m tired too. But, we have to get up now – time to get ready.”

Off to the next things – minutes are ticking by. A few more thoughts pass through…

“…Work Christmas Party, Classroom parties – wait when are those again? Am I bringing cookies or chips and dip? I don’t know how I’m going to manage that extra. Oh and the Christmas concert – is what they have to wear going to work? The power bill – that’s coming due. I hope my check is enough for all this. So tired…can’t it just be different this year?”

Getting dressed. A quick shout out: “Finish up. Don’t forget to brush your teeth.”

The flurry of gathering up bags and water bottles, getting on shoes and coats, and somehow out the door. All before the day ahead, all before the extras imposed by the time of year, before the reality of costs and expectations, before what the world expects of you in the holiday season (buy, buy, buy…spend, spend, spend). Before the “Dear Santa…” letters scrawled out by little hands, with a hefty list of desires – some realistic and some not – met by the reality of the finances. And here comes the overwhelm and the anxiousness.

And then, in the midst of it, a Word that fights it’s way through for attention:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

This season doesn’t have to be all hustle and bustle. It doesn’t have to be overspent or checking all of the boxes. It doesn’t have to leave you with less in the bank and more emptiness in you.

Jesus came in the most simple way possible, giving us the greatest gift, unmatched this side of heaven. And in Him, with your focus on Him, He’ll turn your attention to the simple things. Love, Joy, Peace, Hope…and Rest.

“Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21

‘Now’ – right now, in this moment, change your focus in this season ‘to Him’ – turn your attention fully to Jesus, the One ‘who is ABLE’ and who you can trust with everything, with all that you dare ask or imagine and more. Let His presence and provision fill in all of the longing spaces, to ease your burdens and usher in the rest and connection you need.

If you’re longing for something different right now, come and encounter Jesus and community in a fresh way this season. You’re invited – bring your family and friends, or come find some new ones. Welcome Home to SPL as we celebrate the birth of Jesus our Savior this Advent and Christmas season! Surrounded by friends and family in a community of worship, we remember the gift that has been given to us through Jesus and one another. Learn more at SPLDECATUR.ORG/CHRISTMAS