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Holiday Reflection – The Challenge

There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us make every effort to enter that rest…
Hebrews 4:9-11a


Well how did you do this holiday season? On a scale of 1-10, what score would you get?

My scores would look something like this: gifts all around 9. Yep, I think I did a pretty good job in that area. I feel really good about it. And, for the beautiful gift wrapping job I did, I’d even have to give myself a 10+.

Christmas cards selected and sent out on time: at least a 9. Christmas cards from friends and family displayed cleverly on the mantle and book shelf: 10.

Special food made for everyone to enjoy: once again I have to give myself a 9. We certainly did not lack anything in the food department. Eating sensibly without overdoing it: 2. (Do good intentions count?)

Scurrying to and fro to get everything accomplished that I thought needed to be done: most assuredly a 9. Staying calm, patient, and kind throughout it all: 6. (That may be a little gracious of myself to score it that high.)

Reading the Christmas story from the Bible aloud before opening gifts. I know we meant to do that. We do it every year. What happened? 0.

Taking time to rest and truly enjoy the reason for the holiday: 2. I really meant to do that. I thought about it once or twice.

God really did plan for us to have a rest time. He knew the importance of peace and quiet and reflection. He even gave us the good example of doing it Himself.

Maybe I did not take the time that I needed during the holidays to get in my Sabbath-rest, but that does not mean that I cannot stop and take the time to do it now. Thank you Lord for reminding me of the challenge – to rest.

God, you gave us such a good example when you rested after creation. Help me to remember to incorporate Sabbath-rest into my life as well.

Susan P.

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