What does your December calendar look like?
If it’s anything like mine, it’s probably filling up fast with end-of-year team celebrations, family gatherings, summer farewells, and those last-minute work meetings before everything shuts down for Christmas. The holidays are coming quickly, but the lead-up often feels like a frantic sprint to get everything prepared.
I really love this time of year, but I know how easily this season can feel overwhelming. And honestly, the first thing to slip in my routine when life gets busy is usually my time with God, because everything else grabs my attention and feels so urgent.
This reminds me of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38–42:
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Can you feel the cry for help from Martha – “Tell her to help me!” She’s overwhelmed, stretched thin, trying to keep up with everything. And Jesus does help her, but not in the way she expected. Jesus gently redirects her attention back to what matters most: sitting at His feet and listening to His words.
Christmas is meant to draw our hearts to Jesus, yet the rush of the season so easily pulls our focus away. Recently I’ve had to remind myself daily to slow down and fix my eyes on Him rather than letting my calendar run the show. I need to remember what genuinely matters this time of year – celebrating Jesus, our God who draws near to us, and gives rest to the weary.
So maybe take a moment now to slow down and refocus your attention on Jesus.
Take a moment to thank God for this season where we get to remember our Saviour’s birth.
Take a moment to lay aside the busy schedule and rest in God’s word.
Take a moment to message that friend you haven’t quite had time for and ask them to join you at our carols service this weekend.
My prayer is that we won’t be so distracted by our schedules that we lose sight of the One we’re celebrating this Christmas.
Grace and peace,
David
eNews - 12th December 2025