Hey babe,
If you’re feeling a heavier burden during the holidays this year, you are not alone. The world around us shines with lights, traditions, and celebrations, but grief can quietly accompany us—sometimes gently, other times unexpectedly, and often like a wave we never saw coming.
The truth is, grief doesn’t take a holiday. As believers, we can hold space for both our pain and God’s promise of comfort. This time of year often highlights what is missing: an empty chair, a silence where laughter used to be, or a tradition that feels different now. However, it also invites us to draw closer to God, honor our loved ones, and find moments of peace amid our grief.
When Joy Feels Far Away
It’s not uncommon to feel out of sorts when your heart is aching with sadness, especially while everyone else is buzzing with holiday cheer. Grief can feel even more intense when it contrasts with merry gatherings. It’s easy to feel numb, overwhelmed, or even guilty for not participating in the celebrations around you.
Scripture reminds us, “The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). God does not want you to pretend; He invites you to come as you are. Grief does not indicate weak faith; rather, it reflects a love that was deeply experienced, and that love still matters. Jesus wept (John 11:35), and your tears are acknowledged. Your heart is known, and God is close to your sorrow.
Honoring Loved Ones in Faith-Filled Ways
When it comes to the holidays, creating moments of remembrance can be both healing and unifying. Here are some ideas to consider:
– Light a candle at dinner and say a prayer of gratitude for your loved one’s life. – Read their favorite scripture or another passage that brings you comfort.
– Create a memory ornament featuring their picture, a meaningful quote, or a verse such as Revelation 21:4, which promises a future without tears.
– Dedicate a day of service or kindness in their honor—choose an act that reflects something they would have done.
These simple moments allow for both grief and celebration. They serve as reminders that your loved one’s influence endures and continues through the lives they touched.
Giving Yourself Permission to Feel
Holidays often come with expectations—things we feel we should do, traditions we need to uphold, events we must attend, and people we should entertain. It’s perfectly okay if your holiday season looks different. Give yourself full permission to:
– Rest when you truly need to.
– Say no when things become overwhelming.
– Step away from traditions you’ve held onto.
– Create new traditions that reflect your current situation.
As Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us, “there is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” You don’t need to put on a performance to express joy; allow your heart to take its time.
Leaning Into God’s Comfort
When you feel overwhelmed by grief, Scripture can serve as a soothing balm. Here are some verses to keep close to your heart:
– Psalm 147:3 — “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” ✨
– Matthew 5:4 — “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” ✨
– Isaiah 41:10 — “So do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.” ✨
Take time to pray, even if the only words you can express are, “Lord, help me.” Remember, the Lord hears not only the spoken prayers but also the ones left unsaid.
Helpful Resources
If you need extra support this season, here are some resources to guide you:
- GriefShare (griefshare.org): Christ-centered support groups nationwide.
- Focus on the Family – Grief Resources: Articles, counselors, and prayer support.
- The Christian Care Ministry: Encouragement and devotional content.
- YouVersion Bible App Reading Plans: “Comfort in Loss,” “God Heals Hearts,” and “Peace in Pain.”
- Books: “A Grief Observed” by C.S. Lewis, “Through a Season of Grief” by Bill Dunn & Kathy Leonard.
A Season for Grace
As you navigate through the holidays, remember that grief and joy can coexist. It’s possible to smile one minute and cry the next. You may miss a loved one dearly while still cherishing moments with those around you. You can hold a sense of gratitude in one hand and sadness in the other.
Let this season be one of gentle grace—grace for yourself, grace for your healing, and grace for each day you choose to get up again. God is with you in every moment. His peace is not something you earn; it is given freely. Philippians 4:7 tells us that His peace “passes all understanding,” even in times of grief, doubt, and heartache.
If this season has a weight to it for you, I want you to know this: you are held. God is with you in every tear, in every memory, in every still moment. He is a healer, a comforter and a steady presence in all seasons, but especially the hard ones.
I hope your holiday season is filled with moments of rest, comfort and unexpected peace. And remember, you don’t have to walk through your grief alone; God’s love, and the love of others, is right here with you. ❤️
