Christmas is here! For many of us, this means some vacation time. Hopefully you get You’re probably checking in for flights or packing the car for a trip to Grandma’s house. Whether you’re taking a long weekend or a whole week away, there’s one question worth considering: How are you preparing your soul for vacation?
We spend so much time rushing around town, wrapping presents, attending parties, and getting packed that are souls often take a backseat. We let stress and busyness scrunch our souls into tighter, drier spaces. It’s what causes us to feel that letdown when we’re on vacation.
Finding rest is good for us. Our minds decompress. Our hearts unclench from anxiety and stress. Our bodies rejuvenate with new energy. What our souls need is a quiet place to connect with God. It allows His words to breathe life back into our weathered souls. Your vacation will be more rewarding if you take time to prepare your soul for the rest ahead.
Ten questions to help prepare your soul for vacation
Take ten minutes before your vacation, even if you’re sitting on the plane or at the gas station, and ask yourself these questions:
- What am I wanting my soul to experience during this time away?
- What words are the Holy Spirit whispering to my heart right now?
- What Scripture do I need to hold onto during vacation?
- What distractions will threaten to hijack my attention?
- What fears, worries, or frustrations may try to steal my rest?
- What sins do I need to confess to find true rest in Jesus?
- Who do I need to forgive to release the wrong?
- What is God calling me to do next?
- How can I help those around me enjoy this vacation as well?
- What feelings do I want to hold onto when vacation is over and ‘stuff’ happens?
Finding rest in Jesus as our Prince of Peace
Jesus called His followers to find rest in Him. It’s these same words I invite you to pray through as you begin your vacation:
28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30
May you be free from worries and what weighs you down the most. May you lean into the words of the Prince of Peace during the chaos of the holidays. And, may you find rest in the grace of Jesus our Savior.
