Christmas Reflections

It's been a while since I've written. My husband and I have been working to prepare the other half of our duplex home into a house that we can rent out. We are still in the process of that. In fact, as I type, Joshua is sanding the floor and preparing to seal it.

It's almost Christmas, my favorite time of year. Traffic has picked up and the busyness and bustling cliche rings true as always. But I have adapted to a slower schedule this year, and have even chosen to not work when it could help us make ends meet, simply so that I can rest and enjoy the peace that Jesus came to bring. We are living simply and frugally, enjoying the charm of home-made Christmas decorations and cozy evenings in front of the fire.

I made several garlands out of dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs. They hang in the windows, welcoming all who enter to simple festivity and joy. It took a few hours of intentionality, but only cost about ten dollars, so I think it was worth the money saved. I originally was going to dry the oranges in the oven, but we've been having issues with our oven, so I borrowed a dehydrater from a friend and set to work drying the oranges first. Then I strung the cranberries with a sewing needle and thread. Last, I bound up the cinnamon sticks and rosemary and spun them around the base. our kitchen, dining room, and library each contain this little decorative flair.

As the season progresses and the hype builds, the most present thought today is that of soul-care. Our society emphasizes self-care, the bubble baths and chocolates and moments of pampering. But what about soul-care? Soul-care is intentionally choosing to rest in a God-focused way. It's about taking a Sabbath. It's not just about the pampering. It's about the rest in God's presence. The concept of Be-still-and-know.

Know that I AM God.

A reverential lingering in His presence for the sake of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual restoration through getting in tune with God and welcoming His Truth into each fascet of life.

Self-care is fun, but soul-care leaves a lasting impact that goes beyond that of self-care. This holiday season, why don't you scratch an event off your planner, hire a babysitter, or turn off your phone. Leave work early. Whatever it takes to spend some intentially quiet lingering moments in God's presence caring for your soul.

Sample Soul-Care Schedule

8:00am - A glass of lemon water and worship playlist

9:00am - Breakfast and Bible Reading

10:00am - Quiet walk through nature either while praying or in companionable silence

11:00am - Read a book on a theological subject or a Devotional & write in a prayer journal

12:00pm - Lunch & a nap

1:00pm - End with worship playlist

2:00pm - Call a friend or meet to share ways that God spoke to your heart

3:00pm - Prepare to serve and connect with your husband (or, if single, serve in ministry)

Honestly, lately I have only spent time in God's presence on days that I don't work. This sample schedule isn't a requirement, but it does give an example of what a soul-care day could look like. I pray this sample schedule and concept inspires you, but if it doesn't perhaps God will put something else on your heart that is much simpler. I am excited to hear how God meets you where you are and restores you as you find

a reverent lingering.

Have another idea for a soul-care day? Or maybe you've already done something like this? Share in the comments below! I'd love to hear from you. :)