Thanksgiving Day will fill my home with family, transforming our space into a place of conversation and laughter. With every seat occupied at the dining room and kitchen tables, the delightful aroma of holiday hot wassail, a recipe we all cherish, will waft through the air, creating a warm atmosphere and a shared experience.
Debbie’s Holiday Hot Wassail
2 quarts apple cider
1-1/2 cups orange juice
1-quart cranberry juice
One large orange, sliced
Two tablespoons brown sugar
One teaspoon of lemon juice.
Four cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
1 tsp whole cloves
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
Yet, I know some friends are grappling with losing loved ones since our last celebration, which may dampen their festive spirit. The empty chair at the table serves as a poignant reminder of their grief. By spending quality time with friends and family, we can give them the understanding and validation they need during this challenging time. Mentioning a loved one’s name can bring comfort and connection.
Moreover, we must consider that other hardships, such as job loss or severe medical diagnoses, may affect this season. It is essential to acknowledge that the holidays are not always filled with joy and perfection; struggles are a part of life.
Those individuals who’ve traveled a year of adversity must avoid isolation. They should connect with family and friends during this holiday season. Recognize that significant events can take a toll, and healing takes time. As Christians, there is no better place to turn for comfort during the holidays than to God himself.
Scripture for Comfort
“12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12 (ESV)
“13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)
“12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” – Romans 12:12 (ESV)
“2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” – James 1:2–4 (ESV)
“12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” – 1 Peter 4:12–13 (ESV)
“28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28 (ESV)
“35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written, 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:35–39 (ESV)
“33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (ESV)
“6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 4:6–7 (ESV)
10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” – Matthew 5:10–12 (ESV)
Whatever your circumstances, use the holidays to connect the past to the present. We can look to the future with hope and confidence, knowing that this world’s temporariness is preparing us for our everlasting time with our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Debbie Swindell 