Pilgrims of Hope: A Christmas Reflection
Laura Longville
Christmas is a season of hope. It’s a time when we remember the birth of a child who would change the world. A child who came to bring light into the darkness, love into the world and hope to the hopeless.
As we journey through this Christmas season, we are called to be pilgrims of hope. There is a pilgrim in each of us. A pilgrim is a person who journeys to a sacred place. As we become more sensitive to these moments of being drawn to God, we become aware that our whole lives are a pilgrimage.
Pilgrimages include traveling to sacred places such as the Holy Land and church, walking the Camino Santiago, and cathedrals.
In addition, there are inner pilgrimages. Every time we prayerfully walk through a Scripture passage, we’re making a prayer journey, a pilgrimage. The Word becomes our guide. Each time we sit down at the altar of our own lives to evaluate our growth in Christ (Spiritual Direction, therapy, 12-step meetings, etc.), we are on a pilgrimage.
Pilgrims originally sang Psalm 84 as they journeyed toward Jerusalem to worship in the temple. The Psalm can be a personal prayer, and it’s full of rich imagery. The psalmist describes this journey with deep emotion, intense longing, trust, gratitude, hope, joy, and more.
“How enriched are they who find their
strength in the Lord ”
For some, the holidays incite pain, grief, hurt, and anger. Here are some examples of situations where the holidays might incite pain, grief, hurt, and anger:
Loss and Grief:
Bereavement: Individuals who have recently lost loved ones may find the holiday season particularly difficult, as it can be a time of remembrance and reflection.
Separation and Divorce: People going through a separation or divorce may feel isolated and lonely during the holidays, especially if they are spending the holidays alone or with a new partner.
Trauma and Abuse:
Domestic Violence: Survivors of domestic violence may experience increased stress and anxiety during the holidays, as they may be forced to spend time with abusive family members or partners.
Child Abuse: Children who have experienced child abuse may associate the holidays with negative experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse.
Financial Stress:
Job Loss: Individuals who have recently lost their jobs may struggle to afford holiday expenses, leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Debt: People who are struggling with debt may feel overwhelmed by the financial pressures of the holiday season.
Mental Health Challenges:
Depression: People with depression may find the holiday season particularly difficult, as it can be a time of increased social pressure and expectations.
Anxiety: Individuals with anxiety disorders may experience heightened anxiety during the holidays, as they may worry about social gatherings, family dynamics, and other stressors.
Struggles or pain follow us during the holidays. It means that even amid life’s challenges, we can carry the light of Christ to those who are hurting and suffering.
“ The Lord is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope.”
Let’s be pilgrims of hope this Christmas by:
Sharing kindness: A simple act of kindness can brighten someone’s day.
Offering forgiveness: Let go of grudges and embrace the power of forgiveness.
Spreading joy: Share laughter, smiles, and positive energy with those around you.
Praying for others: Lift up your loved ones and the world in prayer.
May the hope of Christ fill your heart this Christmas season and beyond.