Senior Living

The holidays will bring a greater emphasis on the worship of God. Putting aside all the trappings of great food, parties, singing, shopping, and keeping traditions, the holiday season is about being with the ones you love.

My church’s annual tradition every November is called “A Service of Remembrance.”

In that service we invite all to light a candle in memory of their loved one who died in this past year. Even though that special person may have died last January, the first Thanksgiving dinner with an empty place at the table can be difficult.

The memorial service is not to relive another funeral but to let the grieving know they are not alone.

James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” The comfort for our souls must ultimately come from the One who made us. But in times of grief we may need direction to find God. That can happen when we come together with others who seek the same comfort.

Psalm 120:1 says, “In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me.” The thought of holidays without a loved one might cause you to struggle to attend parties and festivities.

You may need to plan some get-away time. Do not run from a great source of strength from your church family.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says to the church, “encourage one another and build each other up.”

Be especially sensitive and encouraging to those who are grieving. The holidays can be spiritually intense in a positive way as you ponder the blessings of the past and seek God for what He has in store for you in the coming year.

Next week: Boxes of Love