When Christmas Isn’t So Merry
I recently saw a social media post that really caught my attention. It read simply, “I HATE THE HOLIDAYS.” Hundreds of comments echoed the poster’s sentiments. There were a few themes: too much to do, too many expectations, not enough time, and not enough money. There were also those feeling deep grief over the loss of loved ones, families that live too far away, or conflicts and pain that keep families divided.
Does any of this feel familiar to you? This Christmas, instead of excitement, are you feeling dread? Are you stretched terribly thin? Maybe you’re feeling resentful and angry or sad and alone. How do we bridge the gap between the chaos and demands of the season, or the hurt in our hearts, with the peace and contentment we so long for?
A Story About Jesus and Being Busy
Make yourself a cup of tea or hot chocolate, pour it into a holiday mug, and sit with me a minute while I share a story from the Bible, which I think is very relatable in this busy season.
Luke 10:38-42 — “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’”
When I read this passage, my first thought is, “OK, Jesus, but who then will make the dinner? Who is sweeping up the floor and making sure the dishes are clean? Who is lighting the candles to make the home inviting and filling everyone’s wine glasses?” When it comes to hosting, I have a hard time letting that part go—if not me, then who? But the message Jesus shares with Martha (and me) is: “You are overcome by many things, but really only a few are necessary. And even then, how necessary? The most important part of tonight is sitting here with me. Just you, just me.”
I don’t know what your holiday season looks like. Perhaps you’re so stressed you can’t see straight. Maybe you are so sad that you just wish January 2 would hurry up and get here. But let’s take a moment. Breathe with me for a second, just sitting together and breathing. We are not alone… The Holy Spirit is here with us.
Think about what you want this next week to look like. I have to wonder if it is really more about feelings than gifts, or a clean house, or the perfect meal. I know for myself, I want peace. I want warmth, love, and thankfulness. Consider being selective in what you say yes to, ask for help from family members, and be intentional about taking time to slow down and worship.
Bridging the Gap Between What We Have and What We Long For
Earlier, I asked, how do we bridge the gap? The answer is simply Jesus. The Savior of the world came as a baby, born to a mama who did not have the comfort of even a birthing bed. It is no accident that a King arrived by such humble means. So why do we put such expectation and fanfare around this holiday? It is not about beautifully decorated homes and cookies, the best Secret Santa gift for the class party, or the perfect gifts for the family. Of course, we can want those things… but please, don’t offer them at the expense of your peace.
I am prayerful that, rather than another to-do list of sorts, this article will be a soft reminder for both of us on how to enjoy this precious time of year more. If you have endured the loss of a loved one in recent months, be especially kind to yourself. Please reach out to us if there is anything we can do to help in this challenging time.
We at CCCRD wish you a peaceful Christmas.