For a lot of folks, December means that life slows down. Time off from work can make this a more restful season than others. However, for pastors and church staff, the holidays can add more to your plate (and not just your great aunt's fruit bread). Even during the busy seasons, believers are called to rest. It's important to take care of your soul during the holidays and I hope this article gives you some compelling reasons why and practical ways to do so.
Why should you rest?
1. Jesus did.
Scripture is very clear that our Lord took time away to rest and replenish his physical and spiritual body:
But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. (Luke 5:16).
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (Mark 1:35)
If we long to follow Jesus in every aspect of life, why shouldn't He be our example for soul care?
2. So you don't become a starving baker.
This idea is based on Tim Elmore's Habitudes. We must fill ourselves before we fill others. It reminds me of when you watch those pre-flight safety videos and the cold voice reminds you that in an event when the oxygen masks drop down, put your own mask on before helping others. I always thought that was a little harsh, but the logic checks out. How can you help someone else if you've already passed out from a lack of oxygen? We can't give and give to others if we're not filling ourselves up with Christ. If you don't fill yourself up, you're going to get burnt out and stop enjoying ministry that once excited you. If you're already at that place, see below for some ways to be filled.
How to rest?
1. Spend time with God.
Before you move on because yes, my first point is your middle school boy's consistent answer of "read and pray," hear me out. When you're spending time with God, you need to be reading Scripture to learn for yourself. If you are sermon prepping, reading for seminary, or anything that resembles these, it DOESN'T COUNT. Enjoy the marvelous Savior that you're always preaching about. Read and pray for the sake of spending time with God. He's worthy of it and He promises rest.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29)
2. Take time away, by yourself or with your spouse.
Super spiritual, right? And practical, too. Just kidding. I know it's not always easy to get away, especially during this time of year, but I want to encourage you to make the time in your schedule. A day away to a nearby town's coffee shop or a weekend away with your spouse to reflect and refocus might be just what you need to refresh your soul.
3. Remember the gospel.
Remember why you do what you do and recount the joys of seeing those that you have shepherded come into a closer relationship with God. Not only that but remember the gospel that saved YOU. Remember your salvation and where you would be if you didn't know God.
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life...And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good...(Titus 3:4-8).