If, just for a moment, you stand in the doorway, linger a bit in front of the tree, it’s strange how you can see it – how every Christmas tree is a ladder and Jesus Is your ladder who hung on that Tree . . . so you can have the gift of rest. When you are wrung out, that is the sign you’ve been reaching for rungs. The work at the very heart of salvation is the work of the very heart of Christmas: simply rest.
~Ann Voskamp, The Greatest Gift
As you tick the days off the calendar, your mind swirling with what’s left undone or forgotten, may you find the courage to trust in God when he says, “Remember the Sabbath.” He knows we’ll forget; that’s why he issues the reminder in Exodus.
Rest, it’s in your best interest, like listening for his voice.
Sometimes keeping a day holy means napping on the couch.
Happy Sabbath Friends!
Want to make Sabbath a weekly rhythm and not just something you fit in to the cracks between busyness? Join the Sabbath Society, it all started here.
My Favorite Reads This Week:
Losing Sabbath by Kimberly Coyle for The High Calling – I didn’t know a country observed Sabbath as a lifestyle until I read Kimberly’s story about a time living abroad.
When Joy is Elusive by Kathy Escobar for She Loves Magazine – because sometimes Christmas can be a painful reminder.
Mrs. Jingle Bells by Lori Harris – a heartwarming Christmas story of humility.
A Peek Inside The Most Amazing Christmas Card I Received This Year by Margaret Feinberg – the title says it all. I don’t want to spoil it, just go over and be inspired.
One Small Thing Done in {slightly irritable} Love by Michelle DeRusha – a story told in Michelle’s typical self-deprecating humor, get ready to laugh.
10 Things Salvation Army Bell Ringers Want You to Know by Robin Dance- the other side of Michelle’s experience above.
Well, you just made my whole day! Truly. I am humbled to click on your link and find myself here. What a JOY!
I loved your story Lori and you wrote it beautifully. I want more people to be blessed by it like I was. Glad it brought you joy! Happy weekend friend.
Reaching for the rung that will lead me to the sweet rest of Jesus. Wow. Find myself there annually. Thank you for this reminder of Sabbath, Shelly. I like to think I’ll be napping on the couch, but I’ll probably be wrapping gifts. Sweet, Christ-centred Christmas music in the background should help though.
In case I don’t make it back here before, “I wish you and your Family a Peace-Filled and Blessed Christmas.”
Jillie, I’ve missed you, where have you been? Thanks for being a bright spot in my day with your presence here. And to you too my friend, peace and joy and may His presence be palpable on your walk through Advent.
Shelly—thanks for sharing the article, friend. Happy Friday!
What a treat to see you here my friend. Right back atcha, hope you have a wonderful weekend. I loved this post your shared. So inspiring.
Thank you for the beautiful reminder, Shelly. How easily we (I) forget to slow down and rest in His presence. I’ll go check all of the links you shared! ox
Lovely to have you visit Yuko, I enjoyed meeting you through Emily’s link-up. Yes, slowing during this season is especially challenging isn’t it?
Shelly, that passage in Ann’s book really got me. I had to look up the Scripture references, and lo and behold–Jesus IS our ladder–coming down to us. Thanks for this reminder to rest. I appreciate you.
Thanks so much for sharing, Shelly:) Yesterday, we were iced in and had no running water for me to do laundry. I think God is trying to tell me to take my own advice:)