Spending time with family during the holidays can be fun and joyful, but it can also be difficult at times. Most of us will spend time with some family members (or friends) who are difficult to love. Maybe they’ve not treated us well or are holding a grudge about something. Maybe there is tension or strained relationships. You may dread that look or roll of the eyes when they see how you raise your kids or something else that makes you different. You can fill in the blank with 15 other examples.
But remember that you are a picture of the gospel to them. You were hard to love and Jesus gave Himself for you. You continue to do things that make you difficult to love and He moves even more toward you. So, as you pray over the next few days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s, pray for those loved ones that may make things uncomfortable. Pray for those that may offend, anger, or frustrate you. And when the time comes, remember that you are a picture of the gospel to them—for some, you may be the only picture they see. It’s not easy, but having a biblical perspective will help you remember that bigger things are happening than a few difficult moments.
It’s also a time that can be sad as we think of those we’ve lost or see the ones we love aging. Rejoice in the gifts that God has given us and be refreshed in the hope of heaven and the promises of life in the world to come.
Despite what we may see or experience, we are blessed in Christ and loved by Him more than we can imagine.