Surviving the Holidays

Romans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit

We all know 2020 has been a year unlike any other. Everyone has been tested, whether that means spending big moments separated from loved ones, overcoming illness or financial hardship, or just struggling from day to day. In fact, it would be easy to say that this holiday season feels like a test within itself. As we all make decisions to stay home or visit, to buy gifts or save, or perhaps for some-to choose light when things seem dark. But here is the truth. This is not a test. This is a chance for testament.

This year, and this holiday season, we are choosing to let our lives be a testament to the fruits inside of us, the ones the Holy Spirit has planted. When we choose to overflow in hope, as Romans 15: 13 says, then we open ourselves to all the gifts of the season. The gifts of joy, peace, and gladness that stem from knowing that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

As we go through this holiday season, bogged down by stresses big and small, let us choose to revel in the hope that only the Holy Spirit can give. Let us be reminded of those gifts that cannot be opened come Christmas morning; the ones that can only be lived every day, through fellowship in community and time spent alone with God. And let us choose, as always, to be a walking testament to the words of Philippians 4:6-7, and choose to not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.