Writing this article when it was still quite warm here in lovely Chicago makes even thinking about the holidays unbelievable! I can not fathom that it will soon be Christmas!

So, what do we do in order to prepare/face/embrace the holidays?

A lot depends on what the holiday season means to us and what is expected of us from family, friends, coworkers, youth we serve, and the list goes on. Would it not be nice to be entering the Advent season without a single point of pressure from any one of these people? That would make life easier, but not quite as engaging.

Holidays Are about People

How can we face the people we love, and some we are called to love but have a hard time liking on a regular basis? Consider seeing them as the image of God that they are created to be. Whether or not Uncle Bill, who pokes fun at your pretend job, is your favorite person to encounter, he is a child of God and should be loved and appreciated as such.

Holidays Are about Presence

Of course it is challenging to run from the Advent prayer service you had young people leading, to your mother’s second cousin’s Christmas party. It is probably one of the last things you want to do after a long day with teenagers who were not prepared. But, just as you were present to assist those young people in deciphering pronunciations, your mother wants your presence with her extended family because she enjoys your company and does not often have the opportunity to share you with her extended family. Keeping in mind why people nag us to be somewhere will help us to be present with the right attitude.

Holidays Are about Peace

Yes, really, I am serious. Despite the thirty thousand things you are doing and however you are trying to be present, God wants us to find peace. Make it happen. Take time for quiet. Maybe a little extra time during the days leading up to the holiday pageant or whatever demands will break you away from peace. I enjoy being a part of an Advent scripture sharing group. Of course I do not have the time for it, but there is no better way for me to prepare for Christmas than reflecting on the Gospels of Advent and engaging in prayer with people who also feel the pressures of the season.

Holidays Are about Joy

What elements of the holidays bring you joy? Seeing your niece open presents? Riding a sled? Hearing Christmas carols from outside the church building? Make sure you get that joy, whatever it is. Put joy-filled events on your calendar, and facing the holidays will be easier and more joyful!

Holidays Are about Jesus

Christ the King is born. Keeping this truth at the center of our chaos and frenzy is critical in facing the holidays. When we hear of an infant born in a manager, we pause in awe and wonder. God among us, God is with us!