We call Christmas “the most wonderful time of the year.” But sometimes, it feels far from wonderful—for us and for our students. The busyness of the season can lead to stress and overwhelm.  For those who have lost loved ones, the emphasis on family and friends can sharpen the pang of that loss. It’s possible for our students—and for us—to feel alone and disheartened during this time of togetherness and cheer. When these times come, how should we handle them?

Rest

When we’re tired, everything seems ten times worse than it actually is. Even with all of the demands of the holiday season, try to find pockets of time to just rest. A quick nap, a quiet time of prayer, a half hour reading a good book, a brief stroll outside—all these methods can help us recharge and refocus before plunging back into the chaos.

Try to provide time for rest in your classroom too. If you notice that your students seem tired or discouraged, maybe pause for a few moments. You could have students discuss things that they’re thankful for. Or you could take a break to sing a few Christmas carols. Perhaps you could all benefit from a short time of prayer. Maybe your students need a few moments to just relax and be still. If it rejuvenates your students, those few minutes will be well spent.

Reflect

The most beautiful thing about Christmas is that, in the midst of the world’s sin, sorrow, and brokenness, God came to us. As Matthew 1:23 reminds us, one of the names of Jesus is “Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” God is not a God Who distances Himself from our pain: He walks through it with us. As Jesus said in John 14:18, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” Because of the Holy Spirit, we have an ever-present Comforter Who walks with us through every step of life’s sometimes painful journey. In time of discouragement or distress, lean on that comfort.

When our minds weigh us down with worries and woes, we should fill them with Scripture. A few good passages to reflect on during discouraging times are Psalm 27, Psalm 65, Psalm 73, Psalm 139, John 14, and John 17. These passages remind us of our faithful Emmanuel.

Remind

After reflecting on God’s promises, we must remind ourselves of them daily. Putting key verses of comfort on sticky notes in prominent places around your house is a good way to ensure that you’ll see a bit of encouragement as you head out the door each day. Displaying these verses around your classroom will remind both you and your students of God’s goodness.

Another helpful way to remind yourself of God’s goodness is through a personal prayer journal. Taking time to write requests, answers, promises, and praises will help you see the many ways that God is working in your life. You could also create a class prayer journal to record prayer requests from your students. Taking the time to record and pray for students’ requests shows your students that you care about them, and it reminds them of the power and privilege of prayer.

Reach Out

If you’re having a difficult time during the holidays, chances are high that you’re not the only one who’s struggling. Look for others who might be dealing with overwhelm or loneliness. Maybe arrange a holiday dinner with church members who don’t have family in the area. Or take some time to volunteer at a local shelter or soup kitchen. Help your students reach out to the people around them by encouraging them to write Christmas cards for shut-ins, sit with other students who are sitting alone, or take time to greet people at church. Since God has offered comfort and hope to us, it’s only right that we extend comfort and hope to others.

When we start to feel alone, we can go to our Emmanuel—the God Who is always with us, even in the midst of our hurry and heartaches. And that beautiful truth of Christmas is a truth to be shared.