Dealing with Grief during the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration for many, but for those who have experienced loss, it can be a painful reminder of what’s missing. Nancy Guthrie, author of “What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps (and What Really Hurts)”, shares her insights on how to navigate grief during the holidays.
The Weight of Tradition
Nancy reflects on her own experiences of loss, including the death of her two children, Hope and Gabriel. She acknowledges that the holiday season can be especially difficult for those who are grieving, as traditions and memories of the past can feel overwhelming. Nancy suggests that it’s okay to do things differently during the holidays, and to prioritize self-care and emotional well-being.
The Power of Naming
Nancy emphasizes the importance of naming and acknowledging the person who has been lost. She encourages friends and family to use the person’s name, share memories, and ask open-ended questions to allow the grieving person to process their emotions. This can be a powerful way to show love and support during a difficult time.
A Christian Responsibility
Nancy believes that Christians have a unique responsibility to enter into the suffering of others and to bear each other’s burdens. She encourages believers to come alongside those who are grieving, not with trite phrases or quick fixes, but with empathy, listening, and a willingness to sit in the darkness together.
Ministering to Others in Grief
Nancy shares her experiences working with GriefShare, a organization that supports families in their grief. She has learned the importance of listening, not rushing in with her own story, and not presuming to understand another person’s grief. Instead, she encourages people to give themselves permission to feel sad, to cry, and to process their emotions in a healthy way.
Hope in the Midst of Hard
Nancy acknowledges that grief can feel like a heavy burden, but she encourages people to hold onto hope. She believes that God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of sorrow, and that he can bring healing and restoration over time.
Advice for Pastors
Nancy offers advice to pastors on how to support grieving people in their congregations. She encourages them to preach God’s word, to acknowledge the pain of loss, and to create space for people to process their emotions. She also suggests having a special service or moment of remembrance for those who have lost loved ones during the year.
Comfort to the Overwhelmed
Finally, Nancy offers words of comfort to those who are feeling overwhelmed by grief during the holiday season. She encourages them to be kind to themselves, to seek out allies and support, and to hold onto the hope of Jesus Christ, who came to take away sin and death and to bring eternal life.
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