Embracing True Meaning: Celebrating Holiday Spirit with Purpose

As the holiday season approaches, many find themselves overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle that accompanies this time of year. Reverend Thomas Widlund of the Woodland United Methodist Church highlights a crucial aspect of the holidays: for numerous individuals, this period can amplify feelings of grief, loneliness, and financial strain rather than joy and celebration.

For families dealing with the loss of a loved one, those facing health challenges, or individuals struggling with financial hardships, the holidays can serve as a painful reminder of their circumstances. Reverend Widlund emphasizes that the essence of the season should not be lost in the frenzy of festivities, such as shopping, traveling, and elaborate gatherings. Instead, he calls for a return to the true meaning of the holidays.

Finding Stillness Amidst the Chaos

Widlund encourages individuals to take a moment to pause and reflect on the season’s real significance. He cites the biblical passage from Luke 2:19, which mentions, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” This reflection serves as a reminder to slow down and reconnect with one’s faith.

He advocates for actions that promote mindfulness, such as taking a day off from the busy holiday schedule, saying no to unnecessary obligations, and focusing on what truly matters. This practice of stillness allows individuals to center their lives around love, peace, joy, and hope—qualities that should prevail during this season.

Sharing the Holiday Spirit

The second aspect Widlund stresses is the importance of extending the gifts of love, joy, peace, and hope to others. He urges the community to reach out to those in need, whether it be a family facing difficulties, individuals grappling with loss, or workers in the service industry who may be struggling during this busy time.

Widlund suggests that tangible actions can significantly impact those around us. This could involve volunteering, providing meals, or simply offering a listening ear. By sharing these qualities, individuals can help spread the true spirit of the holidays, turning personal reflection into collective compassion.

In his concluding thoughts, Widlund quotes the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, which encapsulates this message perfectly: “If you want to arrange it, this world, you can change it. If we could somehow make this Christmas thing last by helping a neighbor or even a stranger.”

As the holiday season unfolds, let us embrace the opportunity to celebrate authentically, beginning with moments of stillness and followed by acts of generosity towards those who are struggling.