It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but it also tends to be the busiest time of the year. The month of December is often filled with Christmas concerts, family get-togethers, and commitments of all sorts. And that already busy schedule is made even busier by things like decorating, filling out Christmas cards, and taking the kids to see Santa at the mall. Who has time for rest?!
Trying to Find Rest During the Holidays
In an effort to make the holiday perfect, many times we overextend ourselves. We want to cram all the memories and traditions into a few short weeks and, in turn, we wind up exhausted and feeling like the season quickly passed us by. But this year, let’s try to do something a little different. This year, let’s take a little time to ourselves to rest and soak in the joy of the season.
This past weekend, I had a lengthy to-do list. It consisted of folding laundry, filling out Christmas cards, organizing presents, and more. But on Saturday afternoon, while both of my girls were taking a nap, I found myself yawning as I talked to my mom on the phone. I mentioned that I had a lot to do, but I sure would love to be taking a nap myself. Without hesitation, she said, “Go lay down and take a nap. Everything will get done at some point, but the most important thing you can be doing right now is taking care of yourself.” It’s funny how the older you get, the smarter your mom gets! I took her advice and curled up for a luxurious nap while the unfolded laundry lay in a heap on the floor beside me. And you know what? I woke up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle more items on my list. I needed rest.
Jesus took Naps
Throughout the Bible, God shows us the right way to do things through example. Do you think the God of the heavens and earth, the creator of all things, the One who never sleeps, actually needed a day of rest after creating the world? Somehow, I doubt it. But he wanted to show us the example of working hard and then taking time to rest and take care of yourself. There were several times that the Bible talked about Jesus sleeping or taking a nap. I am a firm believer that everything in the Bible has a purpose…even the smallest details. So the fact that it discusses how Jesus carved out time for snoozes tells me that He values rest, and so should we!
Biblical Rest
Rest doesn’t always mean sleep, though (although I’m a huge fan of sleep). It can also refer to resting your mind and soul. Many times, the Bible discusses finding rest in the Lord and being still in His presence. That can be the tricky part—being still. Especially at this time of the year! But there’s such value in putting your feet up, grabbing a hot cup of coffee, and relaxing while having some quiet time with God.
We all need that time! Value yourself the way God values you. Love yourself the way He loves you. When the Bible says, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” it only makes sense if you actually love yourself. And if you love yourself, you’ll take care of yourself and allow yourself some time to rest, relax, and recharge. Hang the ornaments, string the lights, rush around the stores, but also remember to give yourself the oh-so important gift of rest in between these moments of controlled chaos.