At one of those low moments in life, Pooja Chilukuri found herself questioning God while sitting in her closet. Jesus’ peace was overwhelming and from that point on, Pooja’s outlook took a shift toward the real God and His unending love. Transformations don’t happen overnight, but the shift is real and that is where the change begins. Let’s get into it.

It’s funny. When asked one of the number one things many people say is the most uncomfortable time during Thanksgiving is the prayer. Prayers should not make us uncomfortable! We are actually told in the bible not to worry about everything and to pray, yet the prayer is what has got us worried?!?!

That is backward if I have ever heard anything.

But when there is a specific way to our prayer that fits more in line with tradition than authenticity- well let’s just say it makes those who left that tradition/ religion/ church have moments of ugh, rather than peace with the Lord.

What all does a prayer need to include?

As we launch into his holiday season, some of us may be having a slight panic attack thinking of facing family members at the Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

The judgment. The pitty. The worry. The shame. The guilt. The anger. The lack of forgiveness.

So before the turkey comes out and all gloves are off at the table, let’s go over 3 Super Key Things to Do and Remember while Risking Rejection at the Holiday Table, so you Can be the one to Bring the Peace this Season.

It is easy to say one’s belief is personal to them and if they have that belief, who am I or anyone else to change that? Playing devil’s advocate, that is my husband’s argument. We talked about his cousin who has recently decided to convert from catholicism and become a Muslim. He has a belief in that doctrine after studying the religion. My dad has a belief in Mormonism. He believes in that and all the doctrine that comes with it.

It might be easy to see me and say, “She now believes in Christ.” And, yes, that is true. I do believe in Christ as my savior, but it is so much more.

Faith.

Just keep going. Build your relationship and you will find the right people, the right church to build you up, and where you will equally build them up. Together you will be the church Jesus intended us to have and spread His love.

“We are called to create that community and support each other, but it can’t supersede that relationship with Him because that is always going to be with us. Whereas, we don’t know what the group of people is going to be around us. It’s a balance… careful appreciation for both because we need both. ”

— Patricia Sung