Christmas UN-Rushed
“You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” Dallas Willard
I think we feel the need for an un-rushed life more than ever during the holidays!
We cherish the moments with loved ones that can never be repeated. The sight of festive lights, the sound of glorious music and the far-too-seldom spoken expressions of care. The aroma of cooking and baking that make your mouth water, the touch of child’s hot hand or a loved-one’s hug… Priceless, but often lost in the rush. It’s a shame that so much celebration is jammed into such a brief space of time.
While Mary couldn’t possibly anticipate our 21st century holiday stress, she experienced an even more disruptive stress —and she lived through it with a grace that instructs us. Mary’s example of eliminating hurry can be a rich gift to us.
Take time to step back (Luke 1:39)
Mary let God into her life, welcoming the angel’s visit. She found favor with God perhaps because she was open to God’s presence. She held her schedule loosely, making space for holy interruptions.
Questions for Reflection:
Do we make room for God in our lives? Are we hurried by people who expect too much of us, and by expecting too much from ourselves? Hurry is a habit. It’s all we know.
If God sent an angel to visit, would we welcome the interruption?
When does God have mental and spiritual access to us throughout the day?
Take time to reach out (Luke 1:40)
After hearing her life-changing news, Mary went to be with her relative Elizabeth (Luke 1:36). Mary could have kept it all to herself and “toughed it out” alone, but she knew that was the way of self-destruction.
When Mary took time to get away, God gave her a wonderful confirmation: the child within Elizabeth was leaping with joy. Elizabeth and Mary mutually comforted and encouraged each other. Be ready, yourself, to play the role of encourager to others in need in this season.
Suggestions for Reaching Out:
Gather with people who know your heart and know how to care for you.
Expect the Lord to prepare others to encourage and affirm you.
Ask God to help you notice and take time for people who need encouragement and affirmation.
Take time to look up (Luke 1:46-55)
Mary’s song of praise and hope grew out of her reflection. She came to understand God’s ways more deeply and to appreciate her role in God’s plan. My favorite description of Mary is in Luke 2: 19 “and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.”
The fullness of life filled Mary’s heart.
Steps to an Unhurried Holiday Season:
Take time to step back.
Take time to reach out.
Take time to look up.
“God will never guide you into an intolerable scramble of panting feverishness.” Thomas Kelly
At Lorica Ministries, we thank the Lord for you and for your prayers and support.
Faithfully yours,
Doug
Rev. Dr. Douglas J. Rumford,
Founding President and CEO
Lorica Ministries
www.dougrumford.com
