December Newsletter: Merry Christmas!

This time of year I've found there's two kinds of people - those who finished their shopping forever ago and those, like me, who have barely started. Either way, as a woman in ministry "holidays" are generally synonymous with "hustle." In addition to all our normal responsibilities we've got parties to plan and parties to attend. We've got gifts to buy, and wrap, and send. There are end of year spreadsheets and rapidly approaching deadlines. We're planning celebrations in kid's classrooms, church boardrooms and family living rooms. 

So in all the hurry, we just wanted to remind you of something you already know. Don't allow the busyness of the season steal from the sacredness of this season. As ministers of the gospel we know that Christmas is about Jesus, but sometimes forget He didn't come to add pressure to our lives. In coming at Christmas He brought rest for the weary, an invitation to trade in our heavy loads and the promise of both eternal and abundant life.

So this season, remember to not just plan the celebration, but to actually celebrate. Beyond facilitating the worship experience, experience worship in His presence. Schedule margin to rest and reflect. Simplify and streamline projects to reduce stress and burnout. Prioritize times of personal devotion. Above all, find time to spend with Emmanuel who, after all, is God with us.

We're praying for you this holiday season believing it will be a very Merry Christmas!

Ashley Pritchett & the Southern Missouri Women Minister's Team ​