7 Days Until Christmas: A Heartfelt Check-In

It’s officially 7 days until Christmas.

I’m counting down to Christmas not just because the day itself is approaching, but because this season carries a deeper weight for many of us, especially in the Army. Our first-line leaders and squad leaders have been instructed to call us daily until January. Each call ends the same way: they must hear us say, “I am alive and well.”

At first glance, it might sound repetitive or even burdensome. But there’s a reason behind it. Research within the military has shown that this season when joy is expected and togetherness is emphasized is often when loneliness becomes most intense. For some, that loneliness turns dangerous.

So these calls are not just protocol; they are protection. If you don’t answer, higher authority will show up at your door, and nobody wants that kind of attention. More importantly, nobody wants to lose a life.

That reality made me pause and think beyond my uniform.

So today, I want to check in on you, my readers. How are you really doing? Not the “I’m fine” response, but the honest one. I wish I could call each of you daily until the New Year just to hear you say, “I am alive and well.” Since I can’t, I’m praying that you are covered by God’s peace and basking in His goodness.

As we move closer to Christmas, here are a few reflections I hope you carry with you this season.

1. Remember the Reason for the Season

In the rush of shopping lists, travel plans, decorations, and expectations, it’s easy to forget why Christmas exists in the first place. This season is about the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” — Isaiah 9:6

Christmas is not rooted in perfection, performance, or presentation, it is rooted in promise. God chose to enter the world humbly, wrapped not in royalty but in vulnerability. That alone should bring us peace.

2. Give with Wisdom and Discernment

This is a season of giving, and generosity is beautiful. Scripture encourages us to give freely and cheerfully but also wisely.

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7

Be generous, yes but be mindful. January is coming. Bills don’t disappear because the calendar changes. Giving should not lead to regret or hardship. Stewardship matters too.“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” — Proverbs 21:5

3. Boundaries Are Biblical even with Family

I’m going to be very honest here, and this may be uncomfortable for some. Many of us are guilt-tripped especially during the holidays into carrying responsibilities that were never meant to be ours.

Helping family is honorable. But constantly rescuing, fixing, or financially sustaining issues that should not fall on you can slowly drain your peace and purpose.

“For each one should carry his own load.” — Galatians 6:5

This may surprise people who know me personally, but I’ve had to learn this lesson the hard way. I’ve experienced being taken for granted and underappreciated, and I had to set clear boundaries not out of bitterness, but out of obedience to wisdom.

Boundaries are not unloving. They are necessary.“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23

4. Be the Hands and Feet of Christ

While boundaries are important, compassion is still our calling. This season invites us to look beyond ourselves and our immediate circles.

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:35–40

Be intentional about helping those who may never be able to give back. Acts of service matter just as much as financial gifts, sometimes even more. Donate items, volunteer your time, check on an elderly neighbor, or show kindness where it’s least expected.“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18

5. Treat Yourself Without Guilt

This may sound simple, but many people struggle with it especially those who are always giving to others. It is okay to bless yourself.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” — James 1:17

Think of something you’ve always wanted; something meaningful, not impulsive, something that will genuinely bring you joy. For me, it’s the DJI Osmo Pocket camera, and this year I’m finally getting it.

You are allowed to enjoy the fruit of your labor.“A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God.” — Ecclesiastes 2:24

6. Choose Joy and Gratitude

It’s easy to focus on what we don’t yet have, especially in a season filled with comparison. But joy is a choice and gratitude is a discipline.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

This is not the season to activate automatic negative thoughts (ANTs). When those thoughts rise, counter them with God’s Word.“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right… think about such things.” — Philippians 4:8

7. Grace for Seasons That Look Different

Not everyone is celebrating Christmas in the same emotional or physical place. Some are grieving. Some are far from home. Some are rebuilding.

If this season looks different for you, that’s okay. Gratitude doesn’t require everything to be perfect, it requires awareness.“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” — Psalm 126:3

8. Be Present even If It’s Hard

This year, I did something I’ve never done before as an adult, I bought a Christmas tree. I haven’t truly felt the Christmas spirit since my dad passed over a decade ago. I’ve spent holidays surrounded by family, yet emotionally absent.

This year, I made a decision to be present.

If you’re like me and still learning how to sit fully in moments of joy or grief, I’m glad you’re at least aware. Awareness is the beginning of healing.

A Final Prayer

As we round up grocery lists, wrap gifts, and prepare for celebrations, my prayer is simple: that we don’t forget the reason for this season. That we are not just happy in pictures or matching pajamas but genuinely content, grounded, and whole.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” — Romans 15:13

I love you all, and I’ll be checking in again before Christmas. Until then, please remember: you are seen, you are valued, and you matter.