The holidays are upon us.

My daughter celebrates her third birthday on Nov. 19th. My husband celebrates his on Dec. 2nd, and my son turns five on Dec. 19th. This mommy is entering a season of continuous celebration!

Last year I took a blogging break during the month of December so I could focus on my family. This year I am also taking the month of November off as well.

I will still post quotes, prayers and Scriptures on the One Degree Facebook page. I may occasionally post on the blog, but I sense that God is calling me to rest in His presence and to listen for a bit.

This picture represents how I presently feel. I am a highly energetic gal, so I prefer to stand with my hands on my hips like this little girl is. (Sitting down, what is that?) I am standing and staring off into the distance, waiting …

Chad and I need to make several decisions in regards to ministry, his career and our children’s education. I am looking towards God and waiting for Him to direct my next steps.

I sense that God wants to speak. I do not want to miss His whispers of counsel.

I need Him.

This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength …” —Isaiah 30:15, NIV

Jesus invites all of us to come and rest, even in the midst of preparations and parties (Matthew 11:28-30). I know that you may think physical rest is an impossibility – but what about a mental and emotional rest?

“Maybe you and I need to enter into a rest of:

• believing we are forgiven and loved by the God of the universe,

• not being in charge or in control of everyone and everything,

• knowing that we have done all we could to restore and mend what is broken,

• knowing that God will fight and provide for us,

• knowing who we are and who we are not,

• or _______________________________.” (excerpt adapted from Breaking Free , Video

Session 8)

Wouldn’t it be nice to stop and rest mentally and emotionally?

You can.

I can.

Jesus says come.

He urges us to come for His yoke is easy, and His burdens are light. I encourage you to have a literal “come to Jesus” rest this Holiday season.

May you find abundant hope, direction, and peace amidst the preparations and parties. I am going to miss you all!

Thankful to be His,

Tracy