December 04th, 2025

There is something about this time of year that tells us to slow down. The days are shorter and night falls earlier. There’s a chill in the air that encourages more indoor activities. Our circadian rhythm literally shifts towards longer sleep times. These changes are deeply embedded in creation and as such, they are deeply ingrained in us. There is something ancient and powerful about the way our bodies respond to the coming of winter. 

Before electricity elongated our days and heaters warmed every corner of our homes, our ancestors spent winters huddled together by the light and warmth of a family hearth. These gatherings birthed storytelling rituals that reminded the people of who they were and where they came from. Lonely winter nights were staved off by rituals of togetherness and days cooped up inside were spent in cooperation required for survival. Women sewed clothing that would be worn year-round and men sharpened the tools they would use on their hunts in the Spring. Bonds were forged and reconciliations made. All because the people embraced and lived into this season of stillness. 

Our God created the rhythm of the seasons so that we may have natural cycles of rest imprinted onto our very bodies. A wise man once said, “For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). It is okay, and I would argue encouraged, to accept this gift of a Sabbath Season. Say no to that extra Christmas party. Bake one less batch of cookies. Snuggle a loved one longer. Turn on the Christmas music and just stare at your Christmas tree (what I was doing before sitting down to write this blog). Just be. 

Unfortunately, there are a lot of forces that act against our natural inclination to allow ourselves to rest this time of year. If anything, our culture tells us to speed up. The hustle and bustle of Christmas can easily take over if we let it. But what would happen if you allowed yourself to slow down this season? What would happen if you gave in to your innate and instinctual desire to take that afternoon nap, go to bed a bit earlier, and stay inside more evenings? I think you will find that leaning into the seasons God created for us will add a beautiful balance to your life you may have been missing. 

If you need it, this is your permission to be still. For Jesus calls to us, “Come with me to a quiet place by yourselves and rest a while” (Mark 6:31).