Take time for family and relationships. Even if you don't have extra hours for your family during Advent, you can commit yourself to moments of being fully present in loving relatedness.
We can never fully manage time, but even in busy seasons we can be intentional in our attitudes toward time, taking time to greet our children or spouse; joining shopping with a date; playing with children; and making a daily spiritual ritual of lighting the Advent Candles.
Try to discern what's really important during Advent. Jesus said, "Consider the lilies." Today's professionals advise "don't sweat the small stuff." This is a matter of remembering your call as a pastor and the unique calling of each moment of life and ministry. What is God's vision for this time, and what is secondary and optional? Where is God calling me in this moment? What do I need to let go of or delegate or forget about for now in order to be faithful in ministry?
Finally, remember the reality of "Murphy's Law." Unexpected things happen. But, even unexpected events need not deter us from following God's vision and committing ourselves to vital and life-giving ministry and relationships. We can pray our way through Advent, living in the not-yet, but open to God's presence in all the activities of the season. Perhaps you may choose an affirmation to keep you centered during the Advent Season. Some of my favorites are: "Be still and know that I am God," "God speaks to me in sighs too deep for words," "God is with me," "God's light shines on me," "God's wisdom guides me.
Advent is demanding. But, the four Sundays leading toward Christmas can be times of spiritual growth that will deepen our ministry, family life, and preaching.
Return next Wednesday for more Spiritual Practices for Preaching, from the Patheos Preachers Portal.
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