While we strive to be a good neighbor, a good parent, a good Christian, we can miss the simplest gift — Emmanuel, God with us.

Our world is noisy and hurried, yet few of us heed the psalmist’s plea to be still and know Him (Psalm 46:10), myself included. I like to hustle — to check things off the list. But I ask, what would this season be like if we combated the hustle and bustle with silence, awe, and wonder like that of a child?

What if we stopped talking, stopped doing, and just sat in God’s presence in silence?

Millions will sing these unforgettable words on Christmas Eve night:

“Silent night, holy night. All is calm, all is bright.”

While Jesus clearly modeled the importance of silence and solitude, I will be the first to tell you that I am not very good at it. As I have attempted to practice this spiritual discipline, I find my mind drifting. I feel the urge to get back to a hectic schedule and activities galore rather than allowing myself to become vulnerable in front of my King. Instead of fixing something or someone, only God will do in silence. During this season, may we slow down and become present, more able to focus on the Christ-child. May we unplug, withdraw, and set our hearts on things above (Colossians 3:2).

And the hymn ends with the refrain:

“Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.”

A natural extension of slowing down our schedules is allowing our bodies sufficient rest. James Bryan Smith writes, “Sleep is an act of surrender. It is a declaration of trust. It is admitting that we are not God (who never sleeps), and that is good news.” This week, may we sleep until we cannot sleep any more, even just for one day.