The holiday season is filled with joy and celebration, but it often brings stress and exhaustion too. Between juggling family traditions, hosting parties, and finding the perfect gifts, you might feel like peace is hard to come by. But what if this year, you focused on finding peace during the holidays by embracing love and offering the gift of your presence?

John’s letters to the early church provide wisdom on how to walk in love and truth, especially during busy seasons. By applying these timeless lessons, you can let go of the pressure to perform and truly enjoy the holidays.

How can I experience peace while showing love towards others?

1. Love with Discernment

John’s words in 2 John 1:5-6 call us to love one another, but he also emphasizes discernment in how we express that love. Love doesn’t mean saying “yes” to everything or everyone—it’s about aligning your actions with truth. 

Decide to set some healthy boundaries. Be intentional about how you spend your time and who you spend it with. You don’t need to overextend yourself or compromise your values to make others happy. 

As you engage with others, be mindful of your influence. Whether it’s at a holiday gathering or a casual conversation, your words and actions reflect what you believe. Choose to be a light, even in tough situations.

2. Prioritize Presence Over Performance

In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus praised Mary for sitting at His feet rather than getting caught up in the distractions of hosting. This story reminds us that true hospitality isn’t about impressing others; it’s about offering your presence. Instead of stressing over a Pinterest-perfect event, focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where people feel seen and loved. Find value in giving others the gift of your time. Spend quality time with someone who might need encouragement—whether it’s a family member, a friend, or even a stranger.

3. Let Love Lighten the Load

John’s letters emphasize that love isn’t self-promoting but sacrificial. In 1 John 4:9-10, we’re reminded of God’s ultimate gift: sending Himself to dwell among us. The heart of Christmas is about giving—not material gifts, but the kind of love that transforms lives. This holiday season, look for ways to help someone in your community. It could be as simple as buying groceries for a neighbor or donating to a local charity. When you serve others, ask yourself if your actions are about pointing people to God or about seeking recognition. Let your love reflect His truth.

Finding peace that lasts.

Finding peace during the holidays doesn’t mean escaping the busyness altogether—it means choosing love, truth, and presence in the midst of it. By loving with discernment, prioritizing presence over perfection, and practicing sacrificial love, you’ll discover a deeper peace that not only blesses you but also those around you.

Remember, the holidays are about celebrating the ultimate gift: Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us. His presence brings peace, and His love sets your heart at rest.

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” – 1 John 3:16