Christmas is often portrayed as the most wonderful time of the year.

The lights, music, and gatherings create an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Yet, for many, this season is anything but joyful. For those grieving a loss, battling depression, or enduring financial hardships, the holiday can amplify their pain. As believers, we are called to be sensitive to these realities and extend Christ’s love to hurting people. Romans 12:15 provides a foundation for this call: "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

Here are three ways we can embody this Scripture and care for the hurting during Christmas.

1. Recognize the Pain Amid the Celebration

While Christmas is a season of rejoicing, it is also a time when many people feel the weight of their struggles. The empty seat at the dinner table, the memories of better times, or the challenges of financial instability can cast a shadow over the festivities. As followers of Christ, we must open our eyes to the pain around us and be willing to sit with others in their sorrow.

Empathy starts with acknowledgment. Instead of assuming everyone shares in the joy of the season, take time to listen and understand their experiences. Like Job’s friends, who sat silently with him in his grief (Job 2:11-13), we can offer a ministry of presence by simply being there for those who are hurting.

Practical Tip: Reach out to someone you suspect might be struggling. A simple “How are you really doing this season?” can open the door to meaningful connection.

2. Share Christ’s Love Through Compassion and Presence

Galatians 6:2 reminds us, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." One of the most powerful ways we can love others during Christmas is by shouldering their burdens. This doesn’t always require grand gestures—often, it’s the small acts of kindness that mean the most.

Jesus modeled compassion throughout His ministry. He wept with those who were grieving (John 11:35), healed the sick, and reached out to the marginalized. We are called to follow His example, offering a listening ear, a comforting word, or a helping hand to those in need.

Practical Tip: Consider practical ways to support someone who is mourning or struggling. For example, you could invite them to share a meal, send them a thoughtful note, or simply spend time with them.

3. Offer Hope and Light in the Darkness

While we acknowledge the pain others are experiencing, we also have the privilege of pointing them to the hope found in Christ. Christmas celebrates the arrival of Emmanuel—God with us—a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.

Jesus calls us to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). For those navigating grief or depression, the light of Christ’s love can shine through us. This doesn’t mean offering clichés or shallow solutions but gently reminding them of God’s presence and promises.

Practical Tip: Share Scripture or a Gospel tract that invites them to a future service. Let them know you are praying for them and that they are not forgotten.

Closing Thoughts

This Christmas, let’s remember that while many are rejoicing, others are mourning. By recognizing their pain, showing compassion, and offering the hope of Christ, we can embody God’s love in a deeply meaningful way.

Take Action This Season:

• Pray: Ask God to reveal people in your life who may need support during the holidays.

• Act: Be intentional about reaching out and offering practical help or companionship.

• Share: Remind those who are hurting of God’s love and His promise to be near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

As Romans 12:15 reminds us, we are called to share in both the joys and sorrows of those around us. Let’s be the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing comfort and hope to those who need it most this Christmas.