As the holiday season begins, it's natural to feel a mix of emotions, especially when grieving a loss is part of your journey. While the world around us celebrates with festive decorations, gatherings, lights, and traditions, it's okay if you find yourself wishing to bypass it this year. The holidays may feel unavoidable, but they also present an opportunity to plan this season with care and intention, choosing what feels right for you.
I have put together a list of suggestions that provide creative ways for you to move through this entire season with peace in your heart. It is my prayer that you will read Ephesians 3:16-19 each day during the holidays and find the promises of God’s unfailing love enfolding you like a gentle warm blanket.
Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Tips for Coping During the Holidays
- Go see Christmas lights to remind you that Jesus is the light of the world.
- Use a flameless candle throughout the holiday season as a reminder to give thanks to God for the life of your loved one.
- Add a wreath to honor the one who will not be celebrating with you this year.
- Plan meals to include the favorite dishes of the one who is now enjoying a heavenly banquet with Jesus.
- Write a letter each week to your loved one and open it on Christmas Day. Include at least two things for which you are thankful in each letter.
- Move a piece of furniture. The change in the room will be a reminder that things are not impossible, just different.
- Pick a topic and research it. Learning about something new will occupy your thoughts and bring fulfillment.
- Write a letter to someone younger. Give them advice that comes from you or from your loved one.
- Spend 20 minutes a day singing aloud. The results will surprise you. If necessary, look up the lyrics on your favorite search engine.
- Change the day, time, or location of your traditional holiday celebration.
- Read Psalm 23 while picturing the celebration of the birthday of Jesus in heaven.
- Say the Lord’s prayer aloud each day.
- Set up a “Things I am going to do” jar. Fill it with short-term tasks. Accomplish at least one each day.
- Read Ephesians 3:16-19.
- Expect that there will be Shadow Grief Events during the holiday. Do not allow yourself to dwell on unhappy thoughts. Do something from the list above.
You can be the hero of your life story each day during the holidays. I am praying for you.
Sharon Fox