The Gift of Pause

The Season of Gift-Giving: Gifts That Nourish

Gift Idea #8: A Spiritual Practice

Let’s bring stillness to this holiday season.
Let’s offer a moment of quiet with a simple candle—an invitation to pause, breathe, and notice the light of God’s presence.

Be still, and know that I am God. — Psalm 46:10

A pause is sacred. It is a moment to rest the mind and let God’s peace shower us with calm. Taking time to sit and be with God is the reason for the season. We often rush and hardly take notice.

Lighting a candle becomes more than a small act—it becomes a spiritual practice.

A way to slow down.
A way to breathe deeply.
A way to be grateful.
A way to remember that God is near, even in the busiest moments.

We have a choice. We can get caught up and go, go, go. Or, we can slow down and take a sacred pause.

For our mind. Our body. Our soul.

The soft glow of a candle reminds us that:

Stillness restores us.
Light guides us.
Quiet moments nourish the soul.
God’s presence shines and invites us to share His peace.

Chances are you may already have a new candle lying around your home. Or perhaps a tealight?

Materials

  • Small candle or tealight
  • Matches or a small lighter
  • Small tin, jar, or box
  • Optional: scripture card, breath prayer, or reflective prompt

Instructions

  1. Seal with care and, if desired, decorate with ribbon, twine, or a simple tag.
  2. Place the candle and matches in a small tin, jar, or box.
  3. Add a note: “This candle is an invitation to pause. Light it when you need a moment of peace.”

Sample Notes

May this light remind you to pause and breathe.
In the quiet glow, may you feel God’s nearness.
Let this flame be a gentle whisper of peace.

Let this gift be a blessing. A quiet moment. A sacred whisper that says, “Be still. All is well.”

Let’s Offer the Gift of Pause to Ourselves & to Others.

Image Credit: “Gebet” by Kurt Stocker is licensed under CC BY 2.0. 

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