The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone. Between baking (and eating) Christmas treats, parties, shopping, and the drama that sometimes comes with challenging friends and family members, it can be easy to forget the miracle of Jesus. He came into the world to save us, so we could know the simple love of God – not because we work to earn it, but because it is a gift from Him. In the pressure to do more, spend more, and schedule more, what if a happy holiday is as simple as saying “no”?
This season, why not simplify your life? Make space for how God invites you to love Him, and be present to how He is inviting you to demonstrate His love to others. You might even make a “do not do” list. While there are lots of projects you could likely invest time in, give yourself permission to say “no” so you can say “yes” to what is most important. Ask yourself, “Is this going to help someone know the love of God this month?” “Is it going to matter in the long run if I hand-knit Christmas stockings for everyone in my family with monogrammed initials and real jingle bells?” Maybe. Will it matter to make time to be with a friend or family member who doesn’t know Jesus? Absolutely.
Avoid anything you feel pressure to do because you “should,” anything that will take time away from meaningful connections with people. And remember that saying no doesn’t always mean missing out. It can often create space for the Holy Spirit to break into our lives and the lives of others. Pray and brainstorm with some friends how you can bless people who are far from God this season to help them experience the love of Jesus.
You might bring a meal to someone with young kids who is overwhelmed, visit an elderly neighbor and listen to her story, or send a text to a non-Christian friend. It can be as simple as, “Hey, I know life is crazy right now. I’m thankful for you and am praying for you.” Or you might leave a note for someone that says, “Jesus loves you and I do too!” Put it in your own words as you express care and gratitude for others. The Message translation of John 1:14 says, “The word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood.” How does Jesus want to be present in your neighborhood this season?
Jessica Leep Fick
Evangelism Resources Director
Winter Storied 2016