Scripture
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
—Isaiah 40:31
Reflection
This time of year is exhausting. Even when we try to scale back, there still seems to be a lot going on. Because I have a chronic illness, I have learned that if I do not take care of myself, I am no good to anyone else. As much as we all like to believe it, we are not superheroes. We need rest and time for ourselves. When we ignore those facts, we risk having it all come crashing down on us. In the end, if we do not take care of ourselves—especially at this time of year—we are setting ourselves up for a very unhappy holiday season.
Talk Together
What are some ways you can take care of yourself during Advent?
Prayer
Dear Lord, remind us to be good stewards of our health—both mentally and physically. Remind us that we cannot care for others until we care for ourselves.
Activity
Take a trip to a local park and take a walk or even just swing on the swings. The important thing is to just get outside and do something. Can’t get outside? Enjoy some quiet time. Take a nap. Turn off the TV, radio, and phone, and just sit. Read a book or just sit and pray quietly.
