The Christmas season is upon us. I hope it’s a time of joy, family, and celebration for you. But if it’s not, I want to remind you that it’s okay to not be okay. If you are carrying grief, know that you are not alone. When we are grieving or carrying trauma, it’s not unusual to feel a void during this season. While the world around us is bright with lights, music, and festivities, we may find ourselves wrestling with memories, grief, or the weight of healing.
The good news is that, even in the darkness, there is light. At Christmas, we celebrate the miraculous coming of Christ. Our Savior comes to meet us in the very real struggles of our humanity. He entered a world filled with brokenness, suffering, and darkness and He chose to dwell in it.
When we grieve, we may struggle with feelings of unworthiness, isolation, or the lingering pain of the past. Yet, the Christmas story is not just for the joyful. It is especially for the weary and the brokenhearted. It is a season that reminds us of one powerful truth: God’s light shines brightest in the darkness.
Embracing the Light of Christmas
Here are some ways to stay grounded in hope and healing during this special time of year:
Rest in the True Meaning of Christmas
The beauty of Christmas lies not in the busyness, the parties, decorations, or materialism. Rather, the season’s true beauty is found in the simplicity of the Nativity. Reflect on Mary and Joseph, who found no room at the inn and welcomed the Savior of the world in the most humble of circumstances. If you feel like your heart is broken, know that this is exactly where Christ wants to be. Make room for Him!
Create Small Moments of Peace
Peace and healing are often found in the little things. Light a candle, listen to quiet hymns (they don’t have to be Christmasy), read a book, go for a walk, or spend a few minutes in prayer. Let these small moments remind you of God’s closeness and His desire to bring peace to your heart.
Set Boundaries Without Guilt
The holidays can feel overwhelming especially if we are already struggling. Saying “no” to situations or gatherings that may be triggering or draining is okay. Give yourself permission to protect your peace and prioritize your well-being.
Find Comfort in Scripture
The words of Isaiah are particularly moving during this season:
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).
Meditate on this truth. No matter how deep the darkness in your life has been, Christ brings a light that cannot be extinguished.
Open Yourself to God’s Love
Christmas is not about perfection. It’s about God’s love. If you feel less festive or struggle to find joy, it’s okay. Healing is a process, and God’s love meets you exactly where you are.
The Gift of Hope
Survivors are living proof that even in the most painful circumstances, healing is possible. The birth of Christ brings us hope. He came into the world to redeem, restore, and heal. Let this season remind you that no matter how difficult your journey has been, your story is not over. In the words of Mother Angelica, “We see only one chapter…”
This week, I want to encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the light the Christmas season brings. Despite your weariness or sadness, this season is a chance to focus on hope, find solace in Christ’s presence, and take one step closer to healing. Wherever you are, know that God’s love for you is infinite and unchanging.
May this midweek reminder encourage you to carry the light of hope into the rest of your week and through your life. Wishing you all a blessed Christmas season. Wishing you rest, renewal, a renewed sense of hope, and the reminder that you are dearly loved.
