|
|
Concordia Home
|
From the PastorThe weary world rejoices! As the calendar year closes out, perhaps the cumulative stress, angst, grief, and despair has crescendoed to an all-time high, not allowing you to enter into the hopeful waiting of Advent or the joyous reception of the birth of Jesus. This is understandable. It often seems like we are putting out so many fires and keeping other ones burning that by the time we sit down for Christmas dinner and exchange gifts, we are all burned out and unable to celebrate. As we prepare during Advent and experience the Incarnation at Christmas, I certainly don’t want to heap one more thing on your plate. You’ve got enough to do. Instead, I will gently encourage you to give yourself grace during this season and let yourself be. Find one way, even a small way, to defy the weariness with something that fills you with joy. That could mean giving up an activity or responsibility for just one day to find much needed rest. That could look like making space for exercise or a hobby that you find life-giving. That could mean delegating Christmas duties you find draining and opting for those you find more joyous. Find a way that you can just be. After all, Christmas, the Incarnation, is all about God coming to be with us and one of us. The weary world rejoices that this One has come to heal us, to give us rest, and to share in all that burdens us. May this Christmas gift you with whatever healing, hope, and rest you need, that you might greet this holy time with joy. Pastor Jeff Last Updated: December 2023 Limitations & Policy |