As we begin 2026, we’re reminded that spiritual health requires us to slow down. Dallas Willard urged followers of Jesus to “ruthlessly eliminate hurry,” and as we look at the life of Jesus, we see why. Jesus was never driven by frantic schedules or inner pressure to perform. He listened to the Father and moved at the pace of the Spirit. When our lives are filled with hurry and busyness, it becomes difficult to be led by God and truly love those around us. People take time. Loving people well takes time. Again and again in the Gospels, Jesus makes time for the poor, the sick, the hungry, and the overlooked. He didn’t hurry past people — He stopped, listened, and loved them. May we prayerfully consider in this new year how God is inviting us to lay down the need to rush and instead receive the abundant life that comes from slowing down and abiding with Him each day.