Managing Holiday Expectations: Finding Christmas Peace

For many years, Christmas overwhelmed me. The list of expectations seemed endless: gifts, cards, decorations, Christmas activities, shopping, baking, shows, events, and company—all leading to days filled to the brim with constant activities. Each year, it felt like the holiday arrived too soon; I often thought celebrating every five years would be a better pace for such a significant event.

Why do we feel the need to outdo the previous year? This mindset has led to unrealistic expectations for Christmas, and I found myself burned out. To address this, I began to pare down my yearly expectations so that the holiday didn’t feel overwhelming.

Then Covid hit. In 2020, we experienced the most unusual Christmas ever. Living in California, we faced various restrictions that kept people at a distance. So, we devised a plan. Instead of gathering in our homes, we went to Bob’s Big Boy and had dinner with our relatives in the carhop. It’s similar to a Sonic Drive-In for those unfamiliar with this concept, but there isn’t an extensive menu to order from at each parking space. A server takes your order and then brings your food to your car.

We sat in our cars and talked to our relatives through the windows. We even opened gifts while inside our vehicles. Despite the circumstances, we had a great time and now laugh about the experience. It was indeed the most unusual Christmas we’ve ever had.

What are your true feelings about Christmas? What would you leave out next year? What do you want to happen but don’t see happening? It’s all about expectations, and our happiness largely depends on these expectations. 

I am reminded of this verse from Matthew 11:2.8: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

What is burdening you today concerning the upcoming holiday? What element is it? Is it the people, the list of things to do and gifts to buy, or loneliness?

Wherever you are, Jesus is saying the same thing. Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.  

I saw a YouTube video titled “What does God want done?” The title intrigued me. Hmm. Now that’s a question. I’ll apply it to this Christmas: What does God want done this holiday, and how does that apply to me? 

Oh, that is a question, one I am still considering. But it changes my expectations to His expectations. 

During prayer, I heard him whisper to my heart: 

“Daughter, you ask a good question so I will answer you truthfully. I want nothing—that’s what I truly desire: nothing. I was the gift. I came, lived, and died, and yes, I rose again so you could have the gift of eternal life. Therefore, I don’t need anything. I freely gave my life; during this Christmas season, you can do the same—to give freely. I gave up my life, and in return, you can sacrifice a few days for your family’s treasures, memories, and joy.”

Homemakers: Jesus exemplified the importance of giving selflessly, and we strive to do the same. We freely share our time, love, and talents with our loved ones. We may feel stretched thin during this busy season, but remember that it is only a fraction of the year. Once January arrives, we’ll find more space in our schedules to pursue the activities we’ve longed to do. It’s a good time to set goals and reflect on the new year ahead. But for now, let’s continue to give generously. And when we start to feel exhausted, let’s hold on to our guiding verse for encouragement.

Matthew 11:28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

Let me pray for you: 

Dear Jesus, we love You and are so grateful that You came as a baby, grew up, and ultimately died on the cross for our sins. You are truly the greatest gift; we are deeply thankful for it. As families celebrate this gift, life can get busy. I pray for all the homemakers listening and ask for a special blessing for each one. Please grant them what they need: energy, strength, wisdom, and peace. Help them remember to turn to You when they are weary so they can find rest in You, their Savior. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Have a wonderful Christmas with your family and loved ones. If you need prayer, fill out the prayer form. I’d be honored to lift you up to Jesus in Prayer.