““Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” ”
The angels didn’t announce Jesus’ arrival with urgency or pressure—but with peace. A peace meant for ordinary people in ordinary places.
Yet somehow, in the weeks leading up to Christmas, peace is often the first thing we sacrifice. This season, I’m learning that choosing presence is one of the most sacred ways we respond to God’s gift of peace.
Every December, I feel the pull to make everything magical—perfect gifts, perfect memories, perfect moments. But somewhere between the pressure and the Pinterest expectations, I lose the presence I actually long for.
I’m learning that my family doesn’t need a “more impressive” Christmas…
They need a more present me.
The gift of presence looks like:
• slowing down the schedule
• choosing peace instead of perfection
• saying yes to connection and no to pressure
• embracing the joy in simple, ordinary moments
When I read about the night Jesus was born, it wasn’t extravagant. It wasn’t polished or curated. It was quiet. Simple. Peaceful. And God was right there.
I want my home to feel like that this Christmas—
Not busy, but full of peace.
Not loud, but full of love.
Not rushed, but rooted in the presence of Jesus.
This week, I’m intentionally simplifying one tradition so we can create space for joy instead of stress. And I wonder… is there something you feel invited to loosen your grip on, too?
A simple practice for this week:
Name one tradition or expectation you can simplify so you can enjoy the moment instead of managing it.
Sisterhood of Grace Invitation
Showing up for one another is one of the ways we reflect the heart of Jesus. In the Sisterhood of Grace, we hold space for joy and hardship, faith and questions, celebration and grief—all of it.
If you’re longing for genuine community rooted in grace, I hope you’ll join us.