As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:

'A voice of one calling in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for the Lord,

make straight paths for him.”

Luke 3:4

Before the Lord's arrival, a voice in the wilderness called for preparation. The call of John the Baptist was not just a historical event, but a timeless directive for us today: to prepare the way for the Lord. This preparation is not about decorating a home or buying gifts; it's about smoothing the path in our own hearts and removing internal clutter. The Christmas season, with its parties, tasks, and endless to-do lists, often fills our lives with busyness, causing us to forget the quietness and uneventfulness of the first Christmas. To truly make room for Christ, we must first make room for reflection.

We get so wrapped up in the busyness that we forget the quietness when Jesus came into the world. This Advent season is an opportunity to challenge that pattern. The concept of "unhurried Christmas" is a deliberate act of resistance against the culture's frantic pace. It is about intentionally creating space for Jesus to enter into our hearts and our lives, just as John the Baptist urged people to prepare for His arrival. The preparation involves clearing away the metaphorical "rocks" and "clutter" that obstruct our connection with God. This might mean saying no to an extra event, turning off a distraction, or simply sitting in silence.

We often think of the Christmas story in terms of the hurried innkeeper, this is probably a myth. The truth is, Christ's birth was marked by quiet peace and the care of family. We are invited to find that same peace by taking practical steps to "unhurry" our schedules. The ultimate goal is to shift our focus back to Christ, allowing us to find peace and rest in God's plan rather than projecting our modern anxieties onto the first Christmas.

Take a practical step to 'unhurry' your schedule today, intentionally removing one non-essential task to make room for reflection.

Questions for Reflection

1. What "internal clutter" or specific distractions are preventing you from feeling God's presence this season?

2. How does the idea of "making straight paths" in your heart change how you view your daily schedule and priorities?

3. We can get so wrapped up in the birth of Jesus that we forget about the death and sacrifice. How can creating space for reflection this Advent season help you contemplate the full story of the Gospel?