“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” … or is it?

For many walking through grief, Christmas doesn’t feel wonderful at all. In this deeply honest episode, Jay reflects on another Christmas without his bride and the complicated, messy reality of holding grief and celebration at the same time.

Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and the truth of the gospel, Jay explores the difference between seasonal cheer and lasting joy. He reminds us that joy is not the absence of sorrow, but the presence of hope — rooted in belonging to Jesus, the Light of the world.

This episode offers comfort for those who feel lonely, weary, or out of sync with the holiday season, while gently pointing listeners back to Emmanuel — God with us and God for us — even in seasons that don’t feel merry or bright.

If Christmas feels “not so wonderful” this year, you’re not alone. This conversation invites you to choose worship, receive God’s indescribable gift, and trust His goodness as you move forward.

Christmas comes wrapped in lights, music, and cheer, but for those walking through grief, the season can feel completely out of sync with the heart. In this episode, Jay speaks honestly about the tension between cultural “holly jolly” expectations and the real weight of loss, especially when facing Christmas without the one who helped make it meaningful.

Drawing from a personal Christmas Eve journal entry, Jay reflects on how traditions shift, memories surface, and grief deepens during the holidays. Yet he also shares the deeper truth that anchors his heart: Christmas isn’t built on mood, but on Emmanuel—God with us. Even in seasons of grief, God continues to give strength, presence, peace, and hope.

If this Christmas feels different or difficult, this conversation will meet you with honesty, comfort, and the reminder that you don’t have to manufacture joy.

You simply must make room for the One who enters broken places with love.

In this vulnerable and hope-filled episode, Jay shares what it means to steward singleness during the holiday season, a season that carries both beauty and deep complexity for those grieving.

Jay speaks honestly about his own journey as a widower, acknowledging that singleness isn’t something he prefers or celebrates, but a season God has asked him to steward with purpose. With warmth and clarity, he explores how the holidays amplify grief, memories, expectations, and loneliness, yet can still become sacred opportunities to trust God in new ways.

Jay outlines how he is learning to steward his time, emotions, and expectations wisely, while offering practical insight for anyone navigating “different” holidays. He also shares a heartfelt reflection on Christmas without his wife, and how even in broken traditions, the truth of Emmanuel — God with us — remains unshaken.

If you're entering this season with a tender heart, this episode will help you find grace, perspective, and the courage to make room for God in your journey.

Tune in to Episode 47: “Stewarding Singleness During the Holidays.”

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