Where Peace Hides During the Holidays

Whew! Is anyone else feeling a little winded after the Thanksgiving marathon and now shifting gears straight into Christmas mode? Between the decorations, the planning, and the endless to-do lists, it feels like we’re all running a festive relay race this time of year.

It’s definitely been a whirlwind over here! On Thursday, we hosted around 30 people from my husband’s side of the family for Thanksgiving lunch. The house was packed, laughter filled every room, and kiddos were zipping in and out like joyful little tornadoes. It was wonderful. Then Friday, my mama had our side of the family over for the whole day, and that meant more food prepping, more cousins and siblings, and lots of sweet chaos.

Since our daughter is home for the holiday, Saturday turned into “Operation Christmas Decorations,” and we spent the entire day decking the halls. And now—because clearly we’re gluttons for festive punishment—we’re hosting not one but two family reunions over the next couple of weeks. Yes, we might officially be crazy.

But here’s the thing I’ve been thinking about in the middle of all this busyness: this season is full. Full of people, full of noise, full of responsibilities… but also full of blessings if we slow down long enough to notice them.

I’ve had seasons where holidays felt heavy, where gatherings weren’t easy, where joy was something I had to look for instead of something that came naturally. And maybe you’ve been there too. That’s why I’m learning—year by year—to focus on the small things that matter most. A warm hug. A shared meal. A string of lights going up crooked but still shining. A moment of quiet before the house wakes up.

The truth is, the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Our homes don’t have to be spotless. Our schedules don’t have to be flawless. We don’t have to do everything, be everything, or host everything just right. What matters is that we show up with love, grace, and a heart willing to be present—because that’s where the real joy is hiding.

So if your December calendar looks a little like mine—busy, messy, loud, and full—take a deep breath. Look for the beauty tucked between the to-dos. God is in the big gatherings, but He’s also in the small, quiet moments that we often rush past.

And friend… don’t forget to rest. Even Jesus slipped away for a little quiet time.

Here’s to a season that’s not perfect, but still deeply good.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3

November 30, 2025 Morning Brew

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