Going Somewhere

59: Home for the Holidays

Episode Summary

Stephen and Megan talk about the excitement, tension, and challenges of going home for the holidays. Be sure to subscribe today!

Episode Notes

Going home for the holidays can lead to a mix of emotions. Some of you have been counting down the days until you could go home. For others, you are preparing to walk into a warzone. The reality is, young adulthood is a season of change, and that impactss our home and family lives as well. Our relationships with our parents and siblings change. Our faith in Jesus may be new to people at home and some of tho former traditions and activities just aren't for you anymore. How do we navigate these tensions and challenges?

In this episode, we discuss various ways to make this trip home for the holidays a success. Here are some practical tips we walk through in the episode:

1. Serve your family -- Do chores and tasks without being asked. Serving opens the door and demonstrates love.
2. Remain consistent with your rhythms -- Have a spiritual plan. Keep reading your Bible. Keep praying. Create a conducive environment.
3. Stay in touch with community -- Do a reading plan with friends and hold each other accountable. 
4. Be prepared -- Uncover common tripwires and don't be caught off guard by former temptations.
5. Adjust expectations -- Your family and friends likely know a different version of you. Help kindly introduce them to the new you.
6. Don't force your convictions on others -- You can't expect someone who doesn't know Jesus to act like Jesus.
7. Share your story -- Give a reason for the hope you have (1 Peter 5:16). Tell people about what God has done in your life.
8. Set boundaries with love -- Change is hard, especially for your family. Be gracious.
9. Practice forgiveness -- Extend forgiveness quickly. Overlook offense. Apologize readily.
10. Find a church and invite your family -- Use Christmas as opportunity to start new traditions.

 Enjoy this episode!