If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already survived at least one of three Black Friday experiences:
1. You ventured out before sunrise, armed with a travel mug of coffee and the bold optimism that this year people would be reasonable.
2. You stayed home, adding things to online carts like a raccoon gathering shiny objects, only to whisper to yourself, “I don’t needany of this,” and quietly back away from the checkout button.
3. You swore you wouldn’t buy a thing, and then that one ad popped up so convincing it may as well have descended from heaven on a beam of light singing the Hallelujah Chorus.
Black Friday has a way of tugging on our wants, whispering that joy comes with free shipping and that peace can be found in a 65-inch box from the electronics aisle.
And look — there’s nothing wrong with a good deal.
Nothing wrong with saving a little money, buying a little gift, or replacing the toaster that sparks every third use.
But in the middle of the madness — digital or in-the-flesh — a quiet truth sits patiently, waiting for us to remember it:
Jesus didn’t come to offer us bargains… He came to offer us rest.
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
– Matthew 11:28
Rest doesn’t go on sale.
Peace isn’t BOGO.
Hope doesn’t depend on inventory status.
And yet — these are the things we need most.
This world will always offer us newer, faster, sleeker, shinier.
It will tempt us with countdown clocks and “only 3 left!” panic.
But Jesus offers something Black Friday never will:
A heart uncluttered
A spirit unhurried
A life unstrapped from the pressure to chase the next good thing
Sometimes the greatest act of worship you can offer on a day like today is simply to slow down. Breathe deep. Notice the blessings that can’t fit into a cart. Remember the Savior who came without coupons or commercials — the One whose presence is better than any present.
So if you find yourself overwhelmed today — by crowds, by spending, by expectations, or by the subtle tug of “more, more, more” — take a step back.
Sit with Jesus awhile.
Let Him remind you that your soul was never meant to run on the frantic energy of flash sales.
You are loved now.
You are blessed now.
He is more than enough… now.
Whether you bought nothing or bought too much, whether you’re sipping coffee in quiet or standing in a line that wraps around the building twice — His peace is available, right here, right now.
And that is the best deal we’ll find anywhere.
Now go enjoy a leftover roll. Maybe two. God is great. Butter is good. And Black Friday shoppers are crazy.
Keep the Faith… Carpe Diem
