Hard Holidays
We are well aware that not everyone is filled with joy during the holiday season. For some, this is the hardest time of year because they assume that everyone else is surrounded by people having a great time while they are not. The darkness that rests over us like a blanket at five thirty makes us want to go to bed way too early. We don’t get to play outside and in some areas there is a lack of sunshine that leads to depression. I give thanks that I live in a place that has all four seasons but such a mild winter. (My husband is from Wisconsin and we saw that it felt like negative two degrees yesterday where they live.) My sermon last week acknowledged our loneliness and how we are created to be in community. I have heard from some of you that you are feeling some isolation and loneliness.
Recognizing that truth, we have responded to this need with two resources for you and anyone that you know. They are for the community, not just our congregation. Our Care Minister, Brittney will be presenting material and resources for “Navigating the Holidays” on Monday Dec. 16th in the Adult Wing. We recognize that grief can happen in the loss of a job, relationship, uncertainty about the future and with death. All are welcome to attend. We are also offering our Blue Christmas Worship service in the Chapel and livestream on Facebook at 5 pm. This service is traditionally held on the “longest night” or winter solstice. This year we are having this service on Saturday Dec. 21st. I am very excited that Chrissa and Cali Ortega will be presenting the music. Pastor Seungrok and myself will be there as support for Brittney and our Grief Group coordinator JB Hunt. If you would like some private prayer, we would love to provide that for you.
Another difficult part of the holidays is the financial strain. We feel pressure to often spend more money than we have and then are filled with regret and a pile of bills that can steal our joy. I encourage you to make a budget and stay within that limit. Do home made gifts or even letters of appreciation. Often we do not need another thing but an expression of love is always welcome. I promise that these will be well received.
Finally, if you need someone to talk to or pray with, Pastor Seungrok and I are always willing to do this for you. You do not need to set up an appointment or even come to the office. We are pretty good at text and phone prayers. Remember that you are not alone during this season. You are loved.
May we bring joy to each other,
Pastor Heather