Releasing the day
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — and yet some of us already feel exhausted. That’s perfectly normal, says Heather Walker Peterson in this classic article from The Well’s archives as she describes her internal negotiation between social expectations and her deepest priorities. Times like these help to clarify our values and goals, and that might mean letting go of a tradition or responsibility that doesn’t suit you right now.
“The gift I give myself for Advent is letting go of the guilt that I’m not more available.”
But letting go of expectations can feel more uncomfortable that one might anticipate. Juliet Skuldt writes of a simple, wordless prayer practice that has helped her to release her plans and receive the day God intended for her. This is something that can be done anywhere, anytime, and feels especially appropriate for this time of year — a gift for managing moments of unexpected tension and stress.
“A day may not go as I intended, but this unquestionably was the day intended for me. Sitting in the truth of that, I can feel my fingers loosening.”
You’re Invited!
Read with us this Advent! Women Scholars and Professionals will be reading a free Advent devotional by author and scholar Kate Bowler. Sign up at The Well to connect with Women Scholars and Professionals, then head over here to access Kate's free devotional. Please join us, even if you are a few days late to the game!
Weekly Prayer. Today is our final day for our prayer gatherings this semester. Keep an eye here for an announcement in January when we start up again.
IVP Faculty exam copies. Professors can request a free exam or desk copy for InterVarsity Press titles adopted for classroom use up to three times a year. Your free exam or desk copy will be sent to you within four weeks. Register for a professional account to access this benefit!
Are you an InterVarsity alum? Use promo code IVCFALUMNI to get a 25% discount at ivpress.com.
Get your Advent books on sale at InterVarsity Press! From now until December 18, get 25% off select books when you use promo code IVPCHRISTMAS23 at ivpress.com. You'll also get free US shipping when you select USPS Economy shipping.
Believers in Business Conference 2024. MBA ministry is excited to announce the 19th annual Believers in Business Conference February 23-24, 2024. Their vision is to inspire and equip attendees to become believers who are radically inspiring to others in all areas of their lives. Registration opens in late October. In the meantime, follow on Instagram and spread the word to those you think would be interested in participating.
Four More Things We Loved This Week
Have you read “A Visit from Saint Nicholas (in the Ernest Hemingway Manner)” by James Thurber? It was published almost 100 years ago and is still hilarious.
How do you celebrate Advent and Christmas when you don’t currently have a church home? Emily P. Freeman suggests some options. (Podcast with optional transcript)
Is the Campus Novel Dead? “In the age of student debt and hybrid learning, students are thinking long and hard about how fiction can better reflect the new reality of college.”
Scientists have discovered a simple trick for grinding your coffee beans more effectively. (Washington Post, unlocked)