During the month before Christmas one year, I began getting calls from two of my relatives. They’d had a big fight, and each wanted to tell me their side of the story. As angry accusations flew back and forth, neither person wanted anything to do with the other. Prospects for the family Christmas party were looking dim. 

I did my best to calm each relative and, after many more phone calls, managed to broker a shaky peace. We were all relieved that plans for the family get-together were back on. But a few days before Christmas, I woke up feeling sick and so exhausted that I could hardly get out of bed. 

As I reached out to God in prayer, I knew that there was more to address than the physical symptoms. I felt burdened. I was afraid my relatives would have another fight and spoil Christmas for the whole family.