Advent Rest

One thing I love about being a minister is that the craziness of Christmas comes in November. I spend most of November planning for Advent, trying to add uniqueness to the services, writing Christmas Eve services, planning Christmas events, and gearing up for pageants, parties, and decorating.

By the time Advent arrives, I can finally take a breath. All my preparations are complete, and life's pace shifts to something different. Advent becomes a sacred time of anticipation, a season where we learn the value of patience and find joy in the plans I’ve spent weeks putting together.

As much as the festive spirit tempts me to jump right into Christmas carols during our Sunday services, I’ve genuinely come to appreciate the essence of sabbath rest during this season. Our lives are already packed with holiday cheer—whether through social media, television, parties, or the hustle of last-minute gift buying. Do we need to add more chaos to our Sunday mornings? I’ve made a conscious effort to ensure that our Advent services remain distinctly focused on the season, allowing us all to experience that much-needed sabbath rest, even for an hour.

So, I urge you to carve out some time for sabbath rest during this Advent season, whether on Sunday morning or through other intentional practices. Dedicate moments each week to deepen your connection with God. Remember, Advent is not merely a countdown to Christmas—it’s a time to slow down, wait, and prepare our hearts for the arrival of Jesus. Let’s embrace this opportunity to reflect and find peace amidst the holiday rush.

Blessings Rev. Kim 

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