Church Bulletin:
It’s that time of year when most of us in paid employment will be having a break from work. For those not taking annual leave, there are at least public holidays. Other than the Lord’s Day services, the church’s ministries are also in recess. It’s a good idea to start thinking and praying about how this period might be a means of grace. Here are some thoughts:
A. Use the break for spiritual reflection: pray that the Lord would help you to ponder your walk with Him over the last twelve months. The end of one year and the beginning of another is always a good opportunity to take stock. What has the last year looked like?
* Did you manage to maintain a quiet time?
* What temptations did you particularly struggle with?
* What areas need to be addressed and how will you do it?
B. Use the break for physical refreshment: pray that the Lord would invigorate you for 2017. I am sure for many of us as December comes around we feel like we are crawling towards the finish line. We shouldn’t feel guilty about unwinding and putting our feet up. Physical and mental rest are God’s gifts. Isaiah 40:29, “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.” As many Christians struggle to spend time reading, determine to relax with a good book. Don’t just fill your days with work to be done around the house.
C. Use the break for family recreation: plan to do a few things with the family and enjoy one another’s company. Busyness throughout the week often leaves little time to spend together. Many families barely ever sit down to share a meal. Even on weekends, activities like children’s sport and parties mean that we rush from one commitment to another and then we squeeze in errands and odd jobs. Consider using this time to invite church family over or go on a picnic with them. Not only does busyness hinder time spent with our own household but also the household of God.
Providentially in this country we are blessed with a good number of holidays. We should see them as God’s gifts to us. Pray that He would sanctify this period for the good of our souls, our minds, our bodies, and our relationships.