The most wonderful time of the year(and the most stressful too)!

I was talking to some of the ladies at church about how Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year and how much fun it is to get together with family and friends to celebrate Christ’s birth. Yet, on the flip side, the holiday season often brings a rush of to-do lists, like cleaning the house, cooking, baking, financial pressures, and emotional strain. The joy of the season can quickly be overshadowed by exhaustion, unmet expectations, and commercialism. 

 How can we embrace the wonder of Christmas while guarding our hearts against the stress it often brings?

The key lies in readjusting our focus. Luke 10 tells the story of Martha and Mary. Martha was “worried and upset about many things,” while her sister Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet. Jesus gently reminded Martha, “Few things are needed- or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better.”  

It’s easy to slip into Martha’s mindset, running from task to task to create the “perfect” Christmas. But Jesus reminds us to follow Mary’s example, pause, rest, and choose to sit at His feet.  One of the things I like to do is listen to worship music and “sing” as I clean and wrap gifts.

First, let's remember why we celebrate Christmas. It is not about the decorations, gifts, or traditions; it is about Emmanuel—God with us. Isaiah 9:6 declares, "To us, a son is given…And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” When the stress of the season threatens to overwhelm us, let’s slow down and reflect on the gift of Jesus. This truth alone can anchor us during holiday chaos.

Second, surrender the pressure to do it all. The world tells us we must check every box and meet every expectation, and everything has to be perfect! But 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”  God invites us to trade our anxiety for His peace. Join me in letting go of perfection and embracing grace. Let’s say ‘no’ to what drains us and say “yes” to moments that strengthen our souls and relationships.

Last but not least, Let us cultivate gratitude and worship. Psalm 100:4 encourages us to “enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” Stress loses its power when we intentionally thank God for His blessings. Take time to notice His goodness in small moments. For me, it's the glow of the candles in my fireplace or the coziness of a winter night.

Allow worship and gratitude to shift our focus from what’s temporary to what’s eternal.

Instead of striving for perfection this Christmas season, let’s transform the “most stressful time” into a truly wonderful time of the year.

Reflection Question:

What practical steps can you take this Christmas season to shift your focus from stress and busyness to experiencing the peace and presence of Jesus? I would love to hear from you.