EPISODE · Dec 2, 2025 · 10 MIN
The NEXT Podcast – Episode 47: Stewarding Singleness During the Holidays
from The Next Podcast: Moving Forward with Grief and Loss · host Jay Cookingham
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.”Find out more about me here: https://jaycookingham.comI’m on @buymeacoffee. If you like, even maybe love my podcast, you can buy me a coffee and support me. It’s a simple way of showing your support and helping me grow the podcast. Thank you!Here’s the link: buymeacoffee.com/jcdude56t
What this episode covers
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.”Find out more about me here: https://jaycookingham.comI’m on @buymeacoffee. If you like, even maybe love my podcast, you can buy me a coffee and support me. It’s a simple way of showing your support and helping me grow the podcast. Thank you!Here’s the link: buymeacoffee.com/jcdude56t
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The NEXT Podcast – Episode 47: Stewarding Singleness During the Holidays
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