Bonus: Preparing for a Holiday That Will Disappoint
Courtney and Melissa talk about holiday expectations, why we will all be disappointed in some way, and how to draw near to God in such a busy season.
The Deep Dish · Melissa Kruger, Courtney Doctor
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (afp-903264-injected.calisto.simplecastaudio.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
Courtney and Melissa talk about the gap between our high expectations for the holidays and the disappointment we often feel in others or in ourselves. They discuss how to be pro-active in preparing our hearts to hope in the Lord rather than in perfection, how to bear the fruit of the Spirit while also meeting the practical needs of those around us, and how inviting nonfamily into family holidays can bring great blessing. Whether you are excited about Thanksgiving and Christmas or tired just thinking about them, listen to this conversation and be encouraged!
Resources Mentioned:
- 6 Ways to Prepare for a Holiday That Will Disappoint (printable pdf) https://media.thegospelcoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/10111351/6-Ways-to-Prepare-for-a-Holiday-That-Will-Disappoint-Printable.pdf
- The Gift of All Gifts by Melissa Kruger
- Unto Us: 25 Advent Devotions about the Messiah
- The Weary World Rejoices: Daily Devotions for Advent
Related Content:
- This Thanksgiving, Come to the Table
- How Not to Gossip During the Holidays
- Preparing for Advent Season
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. How have your expectations for the holidays changed over time?
2. In what ways can unrealistic expectations set us up for disappointment? What helps you hold your expectations in a healthy way?
3. What’s one thing you’re especially looking forward to and one thing you anticipate may be challenging this holiday season?
4. What rhythms or practices help you cultivate gratitude—both during the holidays and throughout the rest of the year?
5. What conversations or interactions do you want to intentionally prioritize this holiday season, and what might that look like in practice?
6. How can your church, small group, or family support those who are experiencing grief, loneliness, or unmet expectations this season?
7. Which fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–23) do you most want God to grow in you this holiday season, and why?
Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too. Head to cozyearth.com and use our code DEEP for an exclusive 20% off, and if you see a post-purchase survey, be sure to mention you heard about Cozy Earth from us here at The Deep Dish!
Click here for more information about Women's Initiatives at The Gospel Coalition!
Click here for more information about our upcoming conference, TGCW26, June 11-13 in Indianapolis!
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.