It’s no secret that December is one of the busiest times of the year, especially for leaders in ministry. While the world sings carols of “the most wonderful time of the year,” we’re juggling countless responsibilities: Christmas services to plan, community outreach engagement opportunities, dealing with the everyday whirlwind of end-of-the-year reports, and family obligations that pile up somewhere in the midst of all of that chaos. By the time Advent rolls around, many of us are running on fumes!
Picture this scene: The sanctuary lights are dimmed. Candles glow softly. The music swells, and the congregation lifts their voices singing songs to the Savior. But you, ministry leader, are already thinking about the next service, the next meeting, and the next place you have to be.
Advent is a season of waiting and expectation, but it can also feel like a season of hurry and exhaustion. Yet, in the waiting, Jesus invites us to pause, to rest, and to remember that He is the fulfillment of our deepest needs.
The Weight of Busyness
As ministry leaders, it’s easy to fall into a “Martha’s mindset.” We all know Marthas in our lives. (Hey, we may be Martha, or at the very least, we can relate.) They are the ones who are tirelessly working for others, juggling expectations and responsibilities, and when things don’t go as planned, they vent—sometimes to others, sometimes to God Himself. We cry out, exasperated, just as Martha did in Luke 10:38-42, “Lord, don’t you see how hard I’m working? Don’t you care?”
Here’s the truth: Martha’s service wasn’t the problem. Hospitality is good. Caring for your neighbor is good! But Martha’s focus had shifted. Instead of seeing Jesus as her Savior, she treated Him as another task to manage. Her distractions revealed a deeper issue—a heart weighed down by sin, striving for control, approval, and perfection.
How often do we, like Martha, get caught up in the busyness of ministry and lose sight of what’s most important? We chase after tasks, forgetting to rest in Jesus. Our hearts grow anxious, divided, and even resentful. Yet, even in our frustration and distraction, Jesus gently calls us back to Himself.
The Gift of Abiding
When Martha approaches Jesus, His response is full of grace: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
What is the one thing? It’s not about what Martha or Mary are doing—or not doing in Mary’s case—it’s about who they are with. Mary chose to rest at the feet of Jesus, soaking in His presence and Word. She trusted that everything she needed would be provided by Him.
And here’s the good news: the same Jesus who sat in Martha and Mary’s home sits with you now. He invites you to lay down your burdens, your busyness, and your striving at His feet. He doesn’t need your amazing worship experience, the polished children’s program, or perfectly decorated courtyard. He offers you something far greater: Himself.
Practical Steps to Abide
So as we navigate the Advent season, how can we be sure to rest at the feet of Jesus while leading and serving others? Jesus doesn’t just call us to rest—He shows us how through His Word and promises. Here are a few practical steps:
Rest in His Promises: When guilt or shame creep in, remember your baptism and His promise: “You are mine.” In your baptism, Jesus has claimed you as His own and promises His constant presence.
Prioritize Time in the Word: Even five minutes a day can anchor you in His grace. Let Scripture remind you of His faithfulness.
Say “No” to Distractions: Sometimes abiding means letting go of “good” things to focus on the best thing—time with Jesus.
Trust in His Work: When life feels overwhelming, remember that it’s not your job to hold everything together. Jesus has already done the work that truly matters—for your ministry, your family, and you. Jesus’ finished work on the cross means you are free from striving to prove your worth.
As you lead others through this Advent season, may the peace of Christ dwell richly in your heart, reminding you that He has already done it all—for you. Rest in His love, abide in His presence, and rejoice in His promises.
So, take a deep breath and hear Jesus’ words anew: “Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Rest in Him, and let His Word and grace renew your weary heart.
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