Pathways to Peace: Overcoming Holiday Stress and Commercialism with Bishop Julius C. Trimble
In this heartfelt holiday episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller joins Bishop Julius C. Trimble to talk about reclaiming the true spirit of Christmas in a world saturated with commercialization and stress. As we approach Christmas 2025, the conversation explores how to focus on the deeper meaning of the season, building beloved community, and offering hope and encouragement to those who feel discouraged.
Together, they share personal stories, practical tips for celebrating Christmas meaningfully, and gentle reminders to put faith, kindness, and connection at the heart of our holiday traditions. Whether you celebrate with candlelight services or simple walks with family, you’ll find inspiration to make this season more peaceful, joyful, and true to its sacred roots.
Three Key Takeaways
1. Reclaiming the Simple Joys of ChristmasRev. Dr. Brad Miller (Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble ) discuss how the commercialization of the holidays can easily overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. Instead, they encourage listeners to reclaim simpler, more meaningful traditions—like family meals, lighting a candle, taking a walk, or pausing each morning to take deep breaths and give thanks. These small practices help center the season on gratitude, presence, and spiritual reflection rather than stress or material gifts.
2. Building Beloved Community At the heart of the episode is the idea of building a “beloved community,” where love, grace, and joyful connections extend beyond just family—to neighbors, acquaintances, and even strangers. Rev. Dr. Brad Miller shares how even small acts—like speaking words of affirmation to grocery store clerks or baking cookies with grandchildren—contribute to a more loving and inclusive world. They remind us that embracing diversity and intentionally forging relationships is core to the Christmas story and to faith itself.
3. Finding Hope in the Christmas Story For those feeling discouraged, isolated, or unable to meet all the holiday expectations, the Christmas story is a message of hope and affirmation. Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller remind listeners that Jesus’ birth was for everyone, in all circumstances—not just the wealthy or privileged. The message “do not be afraid, you are loved” is repeated as an antidote to the pressures of the season. Through stories from their own ministries, they highlight how simple moments of kindness and worship can be transformative for individuals and communities alike.
Wishing you a blessed and peace-filled Christmas from the To Be snd Do podcast. Remember: you are loved, you are enough, and small acts of kindness can light up the world.
