The pressure is off
Christmas is a time for celebration and relaxation, often enjoyed with friends and family. The notion of treating ourselves is particularly appealing during this festive season, as we delight in both giving and receiving gifts.
We are aware that not everyone will experience the same joy at this time of year. Sadly, for many, this season can be a time for painful reminders. Bereavement and loneliness bite harder when other’s seem to be having all the fun.
The expectation of creating something perfect comes with its own challenges. We worry about what others will think if the meal isn’t up to standard, if the gifts we give are rejected, or if we forget to buy a gift for someone in the family. How will we cope with the embarrassment if things don’t go as planned? Even if all goes well, we can feel relief when it comes to an end because the pressure has been huge. Is this what we want for Christmas?
Perhaps there is an alternative. Consider doing something different. When we feel the pang of pressure, it’s important to ask ourselves: where does this come from? Often, the battle is within. The pressure is internal, and this is something we can address. We cannot control other people’s reactions, so why spend too much effort trying? Recently, within the church, we have explored the concept of freedom and what it means to be free. By recognizing the unnecessary pressures we place on ourselves, we take steps towards that freedom.
As Christians, we have created a way of behaving that seems acceptable: be kind to everyone, try not to cause upset, be good, and do the right thing. The apostle Paul encourages us to do our best to live at peace with everyone. This is sound advice, especially for those who have the ability to create drama. But what if we have become so accustomed to keeping the peace that we are no longer capable of being Christ-like? Has this created pressure?
In Luke 14:25, Jesus speaks about what it means to be a disciple. In recent conversations, I have encouraged people to be clear-cut regardless of the outcome. The alternative is not a real relationship; it is a compromise. To be a true friend we need to have the ability to put ourselves aside and deliver the truth. This means that we cannot afford to carry extra pressures of expectations. I pray that you will continue to find freedom as you walk with God.
May God bless you and your Christmas celebrations and encourage you as you look forward to the new year.
We are aware that not everyone will experience the same joy at this time of year. Sadly, for many, this season can be a time for painful reminders. Bereavement and loneliness bite harder when other’s seem to be having all the fun.
The expectation of creating something perfect comes with its own challenges. We worry about what others will think if the meal isn’t up to standard, if the gifts we give are rejected, or if we forget to buy a gift for someone in the family. How will we cope with the embarrassment if things don’t go as planned? Even if all goes well, we can feel relief when it comes to an end because the pressure has been huge. Is this what we want for Christmas?
Perhaps there is an alternative. Consider doing something different. When we feel the pang of pressure, it’s important to ask ourselves: where does this come from? Often, the battle is within. The pressure is internal, and this is something we can address. We cannot control other people’s reactions, so why spend too much effort trying? Recently, within the church, we have explored the concept of freedom and what it means to be free. By recognizing the unnecessary pressures we place on ourselves, we take steps towards that freedom.
As Christians, we have created a way of behaving that seems acceptable: be kind to everyone, try not to cause upset, be good, and do the right thing. The apostle Paul encourages us to do our best to live at peace with everyone. This is sound advice, especially for those who have the ability to create drama. But what if we have become so accustomed to keeping the peace that we are no longer capable of being Christ-like? Has this created pressure?
In Luke 14:25, Jesus speaks about what it means to be a disciple. In recent conversations, I have encouraged people to be clear-cut regardless of the outcome. The alternative is not a real relationship; it is a compromise. To be a true friend we need to have the ability to put ourselves aside and deliver the truth. This means that we cannot afford to carry extra pressures of expectations. I pray that you will continue to find freedom as you walk with God.
May God bless you and your Christmas celebrations and encourage you as you look forward to the new year.
Tim Sparkes
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