As Christmas Day approaches, and what should be a time of great joy, and restful peace draws near, let’s put down our daily burdens, and ask ourselves how long has it has been since we have taken a true rest on the Sabbath? Just as we say that the Sabbath is a day of rest, and yet continue to work during it, so it is with Advent. In a time when we should be at peace in the anticipation and contemplation of the birth of Christ, we are busily rushing about preparing for parties, decorating our homes, and stressing in shopping malls as we buy gifts. Have we lost the peaceful serenity of the shepherds in the pasture?