Preparing the Way

During the festive period, I often find myself fighting for moments of quiet. On the 30th of November, Rural Missions held a fundraiser to support the work we’re doing. In preparation for what I knew would be a loud, lively evening, I found myself craving something a little calmer. So I put my shoes on, grabbed my head torch, and headed out to the local fields to carve out some stillness.

Although it was dark, I knew the route I wanted to take. The muddy path, shaped by the footprints of others who had walked it before me, guided me in the right direction. With my head torch lighting up the sludge of mud beneath my feet, I could keep my footing and settle into the quiet I’d been longing for.

As I walked and prayed, I was reminded of John the Baptist’s role in preparing the way for the Lord. And it struck me: in the midst of the busyness of Advent and Christmas, we’re invited to do the same. To prepare our hearts, to make space for quiet, and to rediscover the hope and light that Jesus brings. And from that renewed joy, we have the privilege of preparing the way for our communities to encounter something of the true meaning of Christmas.

Across the country, over the next few weeks, churches will be gearing up to share the Good News. These ministries will take many different forms. From quiet Blue Christmas services that gently honour those we’ve loved and lost; nativities where sheep are shepherded (some woolly and real, others small and wriggly) and carol services of every kind, from the wonderfully rowdy to the beautifully still, lit only by candlelight. In it all, we bring something greater than ourselves. We are messengers, sent to share the Good News and the hope of Jesus, pointing beyond our own efforts to the One who is at the heart of it all.

So this Christmas, may I encourage you to find your moment of quiet to remember the hope and love of Jesus for yourself. On Tuesday mornings at 9am, we gather online to pray for one another, for our churches, and for the ministries we’re part of. However you’re feeling and whatever you’re carrying, you’re welcome. It’s a space to pause, to breathe, and to be reminded that we don’t do this work alone.

Quiet - Advent - Christmas - Prayer