A Prayer for Rest and Renewal in the Busy Holiday Season - Advent Devotional - December 1

A Prayer for Rest and Renewal in the Busy Holiday Season
By Keri Eichberger

Bible Reading
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” - Psalm 62:5

Listen or Read Below:

One of my least favorite four-letter words seems to be growing in popularity in modern culture. And I bet it’s one you’ve been hearing even more frequently in this bustling season, too. Busy. It’s a word the world tosses around wildly when referring to their overstuffed schedules and never-ending to-do lists. And I don’t know about you, but I kind of can’t stand it. One, because I feel it, too. Umm, hello! We are all busy. But mostly the overuse of this pesky little word drives me so crazy because it doesn’t have to be this way.

Sure, we’re super busy, which happens to be of our choosing. But even more true, I bet you are dying for rest, relief, and enjoyment of your blessings, like I am—the way God intended. Yet we fall victim to the expectations of others and ourselves (especially during the holidays) to create and experience the perfect plans—a picture-perfect Christmas. Year after year. Do you? Do you find yourself caught up in all the busy, but long for a deep sense of rest and renewal so you can actually enjoy the beauty the season beholds?

This entire holiday was intended to be a holy celebration of a long-awaited king who came as a baby to offer everlasting peace to all humanity. A freedom the world was desperate for. A salvation from the weight of sin and a new life with the ultimate hope of forever in heaven. I so much want to soak in with awe and wonder the majesty, significance, and true meaning of what we are all running around busy for. 

I believe you and I both want to remember and receive the magnitude of the coming of Christ. But instead, we’re spending more time shopping for people that need nothing than serving those with nothing to give. We’re exhausting our minds and bodies trying to create and control traditions instead of just plain appreciating people and enjoying their presence. We stress the perfection of our gift packages, Christmas cookies, and cooking preparation, rather than preparing our hearts to be joyful and peaceful in order to share the love that Jesus came to show and shine. And what does this say about where we are placing our hope?

Bottom line: we are busy placing our hope in gifts, parties, traditions, approval, perfection, and worldly affection. Versus putting our hope in the one and only who can rescue and save our souls. Our one and only savior, Jesus, who wants rest and renewal for you and me. Not hustle, bustle, and busy.

I bet you long for soul rest and a renewed sense of hope right now. Because I think we all do. God doesn’t need your busy. The world doesn’t, either. The Lord just needs you, and you and the world just need him. Will you do something with me today? Give God your busy. He will give you back hope, rest, and the renewal you need in order to soak in the sparkle and significance of this blessed season.

Let’s Pray:

Lord of renewal, You are the light of hope that this world is longing for. Amid my packed-full days that run myself ragged, I acknowledge I put emphasis on so much that doesn’t matter. And I spin my wheels trying to control and perfect scenarios, outcomes, and experiences. But deep down, I’m worn out and need rest, refreshment, and a renewed spirit. Help me remember my hope comes from you alone. Help me put down the busy, slow down, and sit down with you. Marveling over who you are and why the season truly holds such joy and hope. You are my living hope. My only hope. Who came so humbly into the world to save every soul and offer an eternity of peace in paradise with you. You are the Prince of Peace, the Almighty God, and I pause right here to praise you.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Keri Eichberger is a Jesus-loving Kentucky girl. She is married to her best friend, Mike, and has a full house of five kids. After years of writing for an online audience, Keri became ordained through Southeast Christian Church, giving her life to full-time ministry. She is the author of Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar With the One Who Overcomes, and has a passion for sharing faith-filled encouragement through devotional writing. Connect with Keri at KeriEichberger.com or Instagram.

Related Resource: When Life Unravels: Biblical Strategies for Hard Seasons

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This week on Christian Parent/Crazy World, Catherine welcomes back her very first guest and trusted friend, Dr. Erin Barry, to help parents not only survive, but find hope and stability in life’s most turbulent moments. Dr. Barry is a clinical Christian counselor, author, homeschool expert, and co-founder of inseparableLives.com. Her biblically grounded wisdom comes from over 30 years of walking families through the storms of life.

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