It’s the week before Christmas. The local news has shown us how packed the mall stays for last-minute shopping. Most of us have plans made for parties or holiday traveling. We’re taking into account what the weather will be and deciding what we’ll get done. Some of us are already figuring out what day we should take down the Christmas decorations.
There’s a lot to think about right now. And, chances are, you’re probably forgetting something.
This is the only time of the year you might hear me use the phrase “hustle and bustle.” Other words like “frenzy,” “chaos,” “stress” and “prefrontal cortex” surface more, too. Yes, that last one does get used because much research has gone into how we deal with holiday pressures. What happens to us is so widespread and impactful, it gets studied.
There are helpful tips for making it through without losing your patience–you know, actually letting it be a merry time. If you’re struggling, I’d encourage you to learn some of those skills.
I’ll also offer one to you.
Sit still.
That’s it.
That’s the skill. Sit still.
With so much to do I know that sounds impossible. But it’s not. People of faith have been learning to do it for thousands of years. Try sitting still and just being in the presence of God. No phone. No TV. No football or baking.
Don’t even worry about what to pray.
Sit with the Holy One. Sit with your joys and sorrows. Let your disappointments, pains and hope mix and sit with you as well. Now, I won’t promise you each time you do you’ll have some revelation or renewed sense of living. But as you learn to sit with God more, you will have a fuller assurance and understanding of God’s presence. Such a posture with God will, gradually, lead to a deeper prayer and communion with God.
So, take a few minutes, if that’s all you have. Take longer, if you can. Find a room or a corner. It may be difficult at first. With time, you’ll come to treasure the stillness and the gifts it offers.
Stay blessed…john
