Bringing Peace to Others This Christmas

 “Glory to God in the highest realms of heaven! For there is peace and a good hope given to the sons of men.”

– ‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭TPT‬‬

The Christmas season is meant to be one of peace and hope, but that can be difficult for mentors or professional supervisors to find in the midst of our work. So much of what we do revolves around the intense emotions of others, and engaging with our client’s anxiety, anger or depression can be draining. We are constantly reminded of how difficult life can be, and just because it is the season of Jesus’s arrival, life doesn’t stop throwing new challenges at us. In fact, the societal pressures that come with the Christmas season can even add more stress. So, how can we make the holidays peaceful for ourselves and the people around us? 

Take some time. 

Ideally, Christmas means some time off from work to focus on personal relationships and rest.

As a mentor/supervisor, we can always encourage those around us to make time for friends and family, as well as time for relaxation. We should also follow our own advice, and treat this season as a time to rest and refresh. 

Use time well. 

While we can’t always take as much time off as we would like, we can always try to make the most with the time we have. Instead of spending all our time in front of screens or stressing about what we can’t control, we can focus on our relationships and well-being. When we try our best to be present and grateful and acknowledge the beauty and love around us, even a few hours can feel full of peace and joy.

Keep it Spiritual. 

If the chaos and commercialism of Christmas is getting to you, it can help to remind yourself of the true reason of the season; the arrival of Christ. Taking time to refocus priorities and to make room for reflection and gratitude makes the holidays more meaningful, and can allow the stress of gift-giving, social gathering, conflicts and work pressure feel much smaller and more manageable. 

Bring peace to others.

Remember that wherever we go, we can bring peace and hope with us. We find peace in God’s love for us—that peace is transferable to those around us. As we go through the Christmas season—shopping, driving, wrapping gifts, in conversations, attending Christmas celebrations— carry the peace found in God. God’s peace will bring peace to others through you.

Merry Christmas! 

Don