As Christmas approaches, our hearts are often filled with anticipation and joy. It’s a time when we gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
For many, Christmas can be a season of pain, loneliness, and heartache. Someone may have lost a spouse or family member and this is the first Christmas that the loved one is not here to celebrate. Someone may have received a diagnosis and is not sure what the future holds related to health. An estranged relationship may leave someone feeling lonely this Christmas. Take a minute to think who God has placed in your life that maybe hurting this season. Walking with someone through a difficult season gives us an opportunity to show Christ’s love to him/her.
Ways to Support Those Hurting During Christmas
- Be there. One of the most meaningful ways to support those who are hurting is simply by being there. Spend time being there and listening during this difficult time.
- Send a card. Mailing a card is an easy way to show that you care and that he/she has not been forgotten.
- Pray. Pray for the person. If the opportunity presents itself, pray with the person.
- Be careful with your words. Skip religious platitudes like Romans 8:28. This quote was escpecially helpful for our team. “Cancer is painful no matter how convinced you are of God’s sovereignty.” Marissa Henley, Loving Your Friend Through Cancer
- Invite him/her to your celebration. If you have room and know that someone will be alone this Christmas, invite them to join your family around the table.
- Offer to help. You could offer to help with shopping, making cookies, getting groceries, wrapping presents, transportation, whatever is needed.
- Create a Loved Bible for the person.
Resources
- What Suffering People Want You to Know This Christmas
- TLBP Grief Worksheet
- TLBP Suffering Worksheet
- TLBP Walking Alongside Someone with Cancer
- Loving Others By Taking a Meal Blog
- A Prayer for When Holidays Trigger Pain
- God is God Even When the Holidays are Not
- Waiting for More This Christmas
Let’s show God’s love and comfort to those around us this Christmas season.
Do you have any others suggestions to add to our list? Comment below!