In our complex, digitized, hyper-programmed, and supersonic-paced world, the challenge to turn off, dial down, and pull away seems insurmountable. Sisters, let’s not accept frenzy as an inevitable force that can’t be overcome. Jesus affectionately showed Martha (and her modern-day look-alikes!) that there is a better way. Tethering our hearts to Jesus in stillness and prayer will anchor our souls in turbulence.
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42).
Our souls yearn for simplicity, but we’re often at a loss of how to gain it. What if the church could be part of the solution by offering one simple step in the right direction?
A Different Kind of Women’s Event
In place of this year’s usual tea or dinner event, why not consider hosting a unique (and did I mention easy?) event that refreshes a woman’s soul called Simply Still. It’s a set apart time that is welcomed any day of the year, but no more so than before the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays when women tend to shift into high gear. Invite women to one hour of being still before the Lord, soaking in His Word, and creating space for intimacy with the Father who loves them.
The aim of a Simply Still event is to restore a fresh wonder of the gift of God’s grace embodied through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The impact of sixty minutes spent alone with God without distractions (it can happen!) rekindles a gospel love that bursts to live out the true meaning of Christmas. In the quietness of Simply Still, there’s opportunity to embrace God’s heart and mission. When encountering the rest of God, women are spiritually strengthened and can refocus on eternal matters.
In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength” (Isa. 30:15).
Keep It Simple
We recommend hosting Simply Still in the sanctuary or another worshipful, intimate environment in your church. No decorations are needed—except the beautiful Christmas decorations if they’re already in place. Candlelight is highly effective in setting a reverent tone.
- Pray and select four to five Scripture verses for meditation surrounding a theme such as “Behold,” “Adore,” “Magnify,” or “Attributes of God.”
- Enlist a Scripture reader and hostesses.
- Choose instrumental hymns as background music so nothing detracts from the Lord being centerstage.
- If there is a soloist, consider having her sing from the balcony or another place hidden from view.
- Prepare a simple program that guides participants and offers space for reflection. We’ve provided sample programs from our friends at Christ Community Church in Zion, Illinois.
An Uncomplicated Agenda
Assemble women outside the meeting space first, with the doors to the event area closed. Hostesses can urge women to power off their electronic devices before entering. In a quiet tone, tell women to enter in silence and spread out around the room to sit alone. Plan an uncomplicated program in keeping with the spirit of Simply Still:
- A brief welcome, remarks, and opening prayer by a pastor or women’s leader.
- A solo to prepare the heart for worship and prayer.
- A time of stillness, with a Scripture reader reciting one verse at a time five to seven minutes apart as women listen, reflect, and record thoughts and prayers in their program.
- Conclude with Silent Night performed by a soloist or exit to sing corporately with a candle lighting under the stars.
Create Your Own Version
Does Simply Still sound like a much needed corporate sigh . . . exhaling and breathing in heaven’s air for one sacred hour? Talk to your pastor, and start to dream up your own church’s version of being still before the Lord. The variations are limitless, and so are the spiritual possibilities when we come to Jesus.
Be still, and know that I am God (Ps. 46:10).
We’d love to hear about your Simply Still event! Don’t forget to send pictures and reports to LBennett@ReviveOurHearts.com or post them to our Facebook page.