We’re getting so close now to Christmas, with just a handful of days to go. It’s the time of year when the calendar seems to speed up and slow down all at once.
On one hand, Christmas feels just around the corner. On the other, there is still work days to be done, things to finish, places to be, and responsibilities to fulfil. But the countdown has begun, and with it comes the promise of something I think many of us are longing for: a little time off.
There’s something wonderful and reassuring knowing a time to rest is coming very soon. We look forward to slower mornings, quieter evenings, and moments where we can simply be instead of constantly doing.
In Mark 6:31, Jesus says to His disciples,
Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
Mark 6:31
It’s a reminder that rest isn’t a luxury, it’s a gift from God. A very necessary one, and as Christmas approaches, that invitation feels especially essential.
These last few days before Christmas can be a whirlwind. There are still work days to navigate for some of us, events to attend, presents to deliver, shopping to do and tasks to finish. But knowing that days of rest are coming very soon, makes the journey through those days that little bit easier. It gives us something to look forward to.
Maybe that’s part of the beauty of Advent, as it teaches us to wait with hope. To move through the busy moments with a sense of expectation. To remember that even in the rush, God is near.
So as we count down the days, may we hold onto the joy of what’s coming. Not just the celebrations, not just the presents or gatherings or indeed the food, but the chance to breathe deeply, to slow down, and to receive the peace that Christ brings.
Christmas reminds us that God steps into our world and into our busyness, our tiredness and our longing, and offers us rest for our souls. And maybe that’s the greatest gift of all.
The Distinct Dot 