- Introduction
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
ENTER INTO THE REST OF JESUS STANDING UNITED IN PRAYER SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WEEK
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Matthew 11:28–30 (MSG)
This year, instead of getting caught up in the rush, may we focus on finding rest in Christ’s presence, allowing Him to renew our hearts and fill us with peace.
Let’s get closer to God by incorporating solitude, silence, prayer, worship and fellowship into our daily lives.
HANDOUTDAY 1
EMBRACE SOLITUDE AND SILENCE
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 (NIV)
Reflection
In a world saturated with constant noise, it is essential to step back from life’s hustle and carve out intentional time for solitude. These quiet moments allow us to listen for God’s voice, reflect on His truth, and find rest in His presence. Solitude and silence open a space for us to reconnect with our inner peace, refocus our hearts, and deepen our relationship with God.
Daily Rhythm
This Christmas season, set aside time each day to be alone with God in silence. Whether early in the morning or late at night when the house is still, use this time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas – the coming of Jesus into the world. Invite our Lord’s peace into your heart, allowing Him to quiet your soul and renew your spirit.
DAY 2
PRACTICE REST
By the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work of creating that He had done.
Genesis 2:2–3 (NIV)
Reflection
Rest is a powerful way to embrace God’s provision, acknowledging that He sustains us in every area of our lives. In a world that values productivity and achievement, it’s challenging to disconnect and trust that we are secure even when we step back or take a break. The temptation to define our worth by what we do can distract us from the truth that our identity is rooted in Christ, not in what we produce. Choosing to rest is an act of faith, declaring that God is enough and affirming that our peace and security come from Him, not our own efforts.
Daily Rhythm
This Christmas season, set aside time each day to be alone with God in silence. Whether early in the morning or late at night when the house is still, use this time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas – the coming of Jesus into the world. Invite our Lord’s peace into your heart, allowing Him to quiet your soul and renew your spirit.
DAY 3
SLOW DOWN AND REJOICE
You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You – in both inclination and character], because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].
Isaiah 26:3 (AMP)
Reflection
Intentional slowing down and taking time to rejoice are vital rhythms that help us fully appreciate the present and recognise God’s blessings in our lives. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to miss the beauty and significance of the moments we rush through. Choosing to slow down helps us focus on God’s goodness and fosters deeper gratitude and joy. Embracing these rhythms draws us closer to God’s desire for us to experience peace, even in the midst of life’s challenges.
Daily Rhythm
As you prepare for Christmas, be intentional about slowing your pace. Instead of rushing through tasks, approach each one with mindfulness, remembering that Jesus is present with you. This might involve simplifying your holiday plans to focus on what truly matters – celebrating the birth of Christ.
DAY 4
PRIORITISE REFLECTIVE PRAYER
Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
Reflection
Reflective prayer invites us to pause, listen, and contemplate our thoughts and feelings in the presence of God. This type of prayer is not just about speaking to God or asking for things; it’s about creating space to listen and reflect, deepening our relationship with Him. Reflective prayer encourages us to open our hearts to hear God’s guidance and to rest in His peace.
Daily Rhythm
Incorporate reflective prayer into your daily routine. Take time to give thanks for God’s gifts and for the significance of Jesus’ incarnation. Offer your concerns to God, allowing Him to replace your anxiety with His peace. Before rushing off to your day’s activities, sit quietly in His presence and listen for His voice, trusting He will provide comfort and direction.
DAY 5
SEEK OUT COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another...
Hebrews 10:24–25 (NLT)
Reflection
God created us for community (doing life together), and embracing His rest involves building connections with others. Relationships provide us with emotional and spiritual support, helping to lighten our burdens and encouraging us to prioritise peace. By sharing our struggles, worshipping together, and holding one another accountable, we experience God’s rest more deeply and foster spiritual growth. Through these connections, we learn to embody God’s peace and live harmoniously with each other and with Him.
Daily Rhythm
While solitude is essential, seek moments of community with fellow believers this season. Whether it’s attending church, participating in Advent activities, or gathering with loved ones, let these moments be a time to rest in the collective joy of Christ’s coming. Remember, together we reflect God’s love and find renewed peace in His presence.