As we enter the holiday season we should remember that while the holidays are a special time of celebration, for many people holidays stand as yearly reminders of grief, pain, and loss. It can be a lonely time when people feel like no one cares about the fights they’re fighting or the pain they’re enduring. Holidays stand as one of the most important times to remind people that we see them, love them, are willing to stand with them, and walk through life with them – to remind them that we’re their ally.

Allies aren’t at peace when their neighbors are at war – they don’t stand by and watch, they join in the fight. They’re aware of their friends’ needs and they look out for their interests.

As Christians, we acknowledge that we all have a common enemy – the enemy of our souls. He seeks to steal, kill and destroy the beauty that God – through the work of the Holy Spirit – is bringing to life in all of us.

When we’re hurting, we tend to hurt others. Pain, suffering, loss, fear, and doubt can cause us to seek refuge in the base versions of ourselves. And it’s precisely during these times that we need allies. We need friends who are willing to stand with us and fight – fight for beauty to be restored and the hope of a better future.

This week, be someone’s ally. Come alongside those who are grieving from loss, going through a rough season, or simply need to know that they’re not alone.