“Be still, and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10).

     The season of Advent sounds excellent, but finding time to prepare and listen to God seems impossible. Through December, leading up to Christmas, we find ourselves bombarded by countless responsibilities that take over our lives. How can I do anything when every hour of my day seems to leave no time to stop and breathe a single breath? The chaos of the season feels like a rogue wave that overpowers me and leaves me unable to stand on my own two feet.

     As I complain about the business, I hear Psalm 46:10 in my head, and I suddenly remember that I have a role in my relationship with God. In other words, why am I allowing anything to get in the way of my relationship with God? Yes, my schedule is busy, but I still have some agency in prioritizing the essential things in my life. There are several things in the day that I must stop and pay attention to. When I am hungry, I stop to eat. When I need to rest, I go to sleep. These are simple things that require my attention. Everything must wait until I take care of myself.

     Prioritizing also involves intentionally connecting with God. When I eat, can I say a prayer of thanks? When I sleep, can my last word be a quick moment of gratitude? Starting the day with thanks reminds me that true rest includes restoration and companionship with the Holy One, filling my heart with peace and contentment.

     The challenge is in taking personal responsibility to initiate a conversation with God. No one else can do this for me. It’s up to me to set boundaries and create space for my soul, empowering me to find strength and purpose in my spiritual journey.

     As I travel, sometimes on the complicated road of life, I want to acknowledge my effort to seek God during this Advent. May I remember during this season not to let chaos dominate. Help me, O God, to make time to seek you out in my busy schedule. Help me remember to be still, knowing that in stillness, I find comfort and reassurance. I ask for a season of encountering you, and less about worrying about what gifts I buy. May the joy of the season overwhelm me. This I pray. Amen.