‘Tis the season to be jolly!

Well…it’s supposed to be; however, if you venture out and about in this COVID holiday climate, you’re more likely to encounter a season of crankiness, stressed, and overall exhaustion.

The month between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be so challenging to begin with for people – planning and prepping for holiday meals; navigating a calendar that is dotted with plays, recitals, concerts, and parties; and finishing up that Christmas list of gift purchases.

That in itself can create tension, stress, and fatigue. But, this year has added a whole extra level to that as COVID is still in our midst prompting closings, distancing, masking and sanitizing.

Frustrations can mount.  Tempers can flare.  Harsh words can be volleyed. 

The season can feel light years away from jolly.

As finite human beings, we can only juggle so much tension and stress before it oozes out of us in some very unhealthy ways.   

May I offer a simple antidote that is universally tried and true if you find yourself losing your jolly?

Tend to your soul.

Jesus was asked by a scribe in the book of Mark about the “greatest commandment” and next to loving God first, His response was simply, “…Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)

See that little word as tucked right in there?   It’s critically important because many of us tend to throw ourselves on the altar of martyrdom thinking it reads, “Love your neighbor instead of yourself.” 

*Instead of yourself is when you run yourself to a frazzle with a schedule that tops St. Nick on Christmas Eve. 

*Instead of yourself is when you sacrifice what’s best for you at the expense of everyone else all the time.

*Instead of yourself is having zero boundaries in your schedule, on your calendar, or in your time management.

Nope, He said as.  That little, two-letter word makes all the difference in how we live out this command and tend to our souls.

If you had a friend who was exhausted, how would you help?  What would you say?  If a precious loved one was stretched to their breaking point, what would you encourage them to do?

However you answer these questions is how you should tend to yourself.   You are as equally important and valuable, according to Jesus, as your “neighbor.”

Self-care is not a sin; it’s a need.

Making space during this season to relax, rejuvenate, and refill your tank is imperative.  When we don’t, we risk exchanging our joy and jolly for some very unpleasant alternatives.

“Come to Me, all who are weary…and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Until next time, Grace and Glory!