As we approach Christmas, I’m reflecting on the stillness of Advent—preparing our hearts to lead with courage and faith. In uncertain times, leadership starts with being present, faithful, and watchful. Let’s embrace this quiet moment to reset, reflect, and realign ourselves with God’s purpose for the year ahead.

I let the dogs out about sunset this evening. With winter’s arrival yesterday, the solstice is now behind us, and the days are getting longer! Today we had exactly 3-seconds more daylight than yesterday. Tomorrow there will be 7 seconds more daylight than today! There was a stillness in the air on my deck this evening—a quiet anticipation. We’re just days away from celebrating the birth of our Savior, and less than a month away from this nation beginning a new, and hopeful, chapter.

The Advent season, by its very nature, is about waiting—preparing our hearts for the arrival of Christ. Many of us will grab a few days off before the new year – I am and look forward to the breather. This quiet time is a gift, a chance to pause, reflect, and remember what it truly means to lead in a way that honors The One whose birth we prepare to celebrate.

Stillness Before Renewal

It’s easy to feel unsettled during this time of year, especially as current events shape the world around us. Here in Colorado, families are feeling the weight of rising costs and economic strain, as inflation continues to impact everything from groceries to home heating bills. For many, there will be fewer presents under the tree. Many are looking toward Christmas with joy, yes, but also with a sense of anxiety about what’s to come.

As leaders, we can’t ignore these struggles. We are called to be both present and purposeful—to see those who are hurting and to be a source of stability in uncertain times. It’s what Jesus modeled for us time and time again. In Matthew 11:28, He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Leadership Begins with Presence

When I think about this quiet stretch leading into Christmas, I’m reminded of the shepherds in Luke’s Gospel. They weren’t kings or politicians; they weren’t wealthy or powerful. They were ordinary people, doing their jobs, keeping watch over their flocks. And yet, God chose to reveal the greatest news of all time to them first.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (Luke 2:8-10)

The shepherds were faithful in the small things—being watchful, being present. And because of that, they were the first to witness God’s plan unfolding. There’s a lesson here for us. Sometimes leadership isn’t about grand speeches or bold gestures. Sometimes it’s about showing up and keeping watch. It’s about being faithful where God has placed us, even when it feels quiet, even when no one else is paying attention.

A Time to Prepare, A Time to Act

Here in Colorado, as we close out a challenging year, it’s easy to feel the weight of leadership. Our communities are divided on issues big and small, and it often feels like the cultural and political noise drowns out the still, small voice of God. But this quiet week before Christmas is a chance to reset. To prepare. To lean in and listen to what He’s calling us to do.

This doesn’t mean we abandon our boldness or our convictions. On the contrary, this is the time to strengthen them. To sharpen our focus. To ask ourselves:

  • Are we being faithful where God has placed us?
  • Are we leading our families, our teams, and our communities with integrity?
  • Are we modeling the same servant-hearted leadership that Jesus embodied?

In a world that’s constantly moving, constantly demanding more, this stillness is an opportunity. It’s a chance to realign ourselves with God’s purpose and prepare our hearts to lead with courage, truth, and love in the days to come.

Looking Ahead to Christmas

In just a few days, we’ll celebrate the birth of Jesus—the Light that broke through the darkness. But for now, we wait. Let’s not rush through this moment. Let’s use this time to reflect on what kind of leaders we want to be as we move into a new year.

In John 8:12, Jesus declares: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

The light has come. And no matter how heavy the burdens around us may feel—no matter the economy, the divisions, or the personal struggles—His light still shines. It’s our job to reflect it. To lead with integrity. To show up when others need us. And to point those we lead toward the One who holds it all together.

As this evening settles in and Christmas draws near, take a moment to embrace the stillness. Let it prepare you for what’s to come. The world needs bold, faithful leaders—now more than ever. Let’s rise to that calling, one step at a time.

Merry Christmas to you and yours. May the light of Christ shine brightly in your hearts, homes, and leadership this season.

About the author

Scott K. James

A 4th generation Northern Colorado native, Scott K. James is a veteran broadcaster, professional communicator, and principled leader. Widely recognized for his thoughtful, common-sense approach to addressing issues that affect families, businesses, and communities, Scott, his wife, Julie, and son, Jack, call Johnstown, Colorado, home. A former mayor of Johnstown, James is a staunch defender of the Constitution and the rule of law, the free market, and the power of the individual. Scott has delighted in a lifetime of public service and continues that service as a Weld County Commissioner representing District 2.

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