When God Draws Near to the Weary

Christmas has a way of slowing us down—if only for a moment—to notice the places in our lives where we feel weary, stretched, or in need of hope. 

It is no coincidence that the story of Christ’s birth begins in darkness: 

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isa. 9:2, ESV). 

The Incarnation is God’s declaration that He draws near not to the strong and self-sufficient, but to the tired, the uncertain, and the longing.

This year, as I reflect on Christmas, I find myself especially aware of that truth.

Many of you know that after nearly twenty years of serving with Music Serving the Word Ministries, my position was concluded earlier this year as the organization moved in a new direction. Though I remain deeply grateful for that long season of ministry, the transition was disorienting. 

I found myself asking vulnerable—but honest—questions I hadn’t expected to face: 

Is this the time to retire? Has my season of serving pastors, leaders, and learners come to an end? How do I navigate what feels like both an ending and a beginning?

In that season of uncertainty, the Lord gently reminded me of a truth I have taught others for years: spiritual formation is often born in places of surrender. 

As I prayed, listened, and sought counsel, I sensed God inviting me not to step away from ministry but to step deeper into the work He had shaped in me over decades. That calling—to nurture the souls of pastors, leaders, and learners—only seemed to grow stronger.

With faith and trembling obedience, I launched RPM Ministries. 

To my surprise and gratitude, our nonprofit approval came through in September of this year. That affirmation, coupled with the encouragement and support many of you have offered—has been a powerful reminder that God guides not only by closing doors but by illuminating new paths.

Why This Work Matters Now More Than Ever

In recent years, I have had countless conversations with pastors and leaders who confess they are exhausted. Many wonder how long they can continue. 

Christmas often brings beauty and joy—but it also highlights how deeply people in ministry feel the weight of others’ expectations.

Yet the message of Christmas speaks directly to weary shepherds:

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

—Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

Christ did not come to burden us further, but to restore us—to give rest to souls stretched thin. 

This is why RPM Ministries exists.

Our Vision

To empower pastors, leaders, and learners to thrive as healthy, effective, and Godly leaders who transform communities and inspire others.

Our Mission

To nurture the soul care of pastors, leaders, and learners through practical writing resources, spiritual formation, insightful teaching, and meaningful mentoring relationships.

In a time when so many shepherds are running on empty, the ministry of presence, listening, prayer, and spiritual guidance is essential.

A Christmas Invitation

If you’d like to learn more about RPM Ministries—our heart, our mission, and the resources we offer—I warmly invite you to visit: richardparrish.org

There you’ll find my weekly blogs, spiritual formation reflections, ministry stories, and opportunities to engage.

As we near the end of the year, some may also feel prompted to make a year-end gift that helps fuel this mission of soul care for pastors and leaders. A secure giving link is available on our website. Please know this: your support is never taken for granted—and your information is never shared. Your generosity strengthens those who spend their lives strengthening others.

This Christmas, may the nearness of Christ bring renewal to your spirit and hope to your heart. In the places where you feel weary, may His light break in gently—and may you know that He draws near to you, just as He draws near to the shepherds and servants of His Church.

All our RPM Ministries team wishes you and yours a Merry Christmas!