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The holiday season, while a time of joy and celebration, can also be particularly taxing for pastors. Here are 12 ways for pastors to get better rest during the holiday season.
The holiday season, while a time of joy and celebration, can also be particularly taxing for pastors.
Balancing the increased demands of church activities with personal and family commitments can create stress, anxiety, and even feelings of loneliness for the leaders of churches.
Take heart: There is an opportunity for pastors to get refreshed during Christmas and the New Year. In the following article, we’ll be looking at 12 practical tips for church leaders to lean into rest this holiday season.
1. Schedule Time for Solitude: The Bible reminds us of the importance of solitude in Mark 6:31, where Jesus says, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Pastors should intentionally schedule time for solitude, away from the demands of ministry and holiday activities, to reconnect with God.
2. Delegate Responsibilities: Exodus 18:17-18 advises, "What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” Pastors should feel empowered to delegate responsibilities to trusted church members or staff, especially during the holiday season. Remember–delegation is also key to healthy leadership!
3. Engage in Physical Rest: Psalm 127:2 says, “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.” Pastors should ensure they are getting adequate sleep and physical rest, which is essential for mental and spiritual well-being.
4. Daily Devotion and Prayer: Matthew 11:28 offers a comforting invitation, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Maintaining a daily practice of devotion and prayer can help pastors stay grounded and connected to the source of their strength and calling.
5. Engage in Worship Outside Your Church: Sometimes, participating in worship where you aren’t in charge can be refreshing. Visiting another church or joining an online service can provide a new perspective and a much-needed break from leadership responsibilities–and an opportunity to connect with Jesus.
6. Spend Quality Time with Family: Despite the busyness, the holiday season can still be a wonderful time for pastors to spend time with their families, whether immediate or extended. Prioritizing family outings or activities, even simple ones, is key.
7. Connect with Peers: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the importance of companionship, "Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” Engaging with fellow pastors or mentors can provide support, understanding, and encouragement.
8. Pursue a Hobby or Interest: Engaging in a hobby or interest outside of ministry work can be a refreshing change of pace. Don’t forget to have fun!
9. Take a Short Trip or Retreat: A change of scenery can do wonders for one's mental and spiritual state. Even a short retreat or pilgrimage can provide a much-needed break from obligations and responsibilities. This is also the perfect time to get vision for the new year and spend extended time in prayer.
10. Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to remember that not everything has to be perfect. Pastors should set realistic expectations for themselves and their congregation during this busy season.
11. Practice Gratitude: Staying thankful is so important. The practice of gratitude is essential to feeling refreshed and renewed at the end of the year (especially when you haven’t seen the sunshine in a while!)
12. Seek Community Support and Understanding: Galatians 6:2 teaches, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Pastors should remember that they are part of a community that cares for them as much as they care for the community. It's important to openly communicate needs and challenges to trusted church members.
A final practical tip: Don’t overlook tools that can make your job easier during the holiday season. Sermonly is an AI-powered tool for pastors that can make sermon preparation orders of magnitude easier. Learn more about Sermonly here.
