The Next Podcast Episode 48: “Holly Jolly… really?”

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.