Additional Reflection examples
REFLECTION
The Road Less Traveled
It’s Christmas Eve.
Cratchit has left his own Christmas party. He’s chosen not to be with his family on this most sacred of nights. Instead, he walks alone through Seven Dials—a district known for its danger and temptation.
The book describes Cratchit’s decision plainly: “He turned slowly in a circle, peering down each crooked passage. Then, with little hesitation, he chose the darkest road.”
In Robert Frost’s famous poem, The Road Not Taken, a traveler stands at a fork in the road and must choose which path to follow. The moment captures the weight of decision—how a single choice can shape the direction of a life. The traveler chose “the one less traveled by.”
Cratchit chooses just the opposite. On the very night meant for celebration, fellowship, and light, he walks down the darkest of streets.
Jesus speaks of two roads: one broad and easy, the other narrow and difficult. The issue is not whether temptation exists. The issue is which road we choose when both are visible.
“Enter through the narrow gate… small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life.” — Matthew 7:13–14
For Group Discussion
1. Think of a time when you knew the right choice, but didn’t want to make it. Which did you choose, and why?
2. What do the two roads Jesus speaks of look like in everyday life? Why do you think “the road that leads to life” is narrow?
3. Psalm 119:9 asks, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity?” and answers, “By living according to your word.” What helps you recognize the right or wrong path before you step too far down it?
4. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says that no temptation is unique to us and that God always provides “a way out.” Was there ever a time where you knew there was an exit—but still chose otherwise? What makes it hard to take the way out?
REFLECTION
'Tis the Season
When Cratchit sees the sudden flame through the window, he does what any sensible person would do—he grabs a bucket and throws water on it. He’s trying to save his building and possessions. Little does he know that he’s dousing the light of Christmas itself.
Even after the Spirit restores the torch and the light reveals a room filled with food, gifts, and warmth, Cratchit’s attention is diverted.
While the Ghost speaks of kindness, fellowship, and the true meaning of Christmas, Cratchit helps himself to the feast.
When the Spirit urges him to touch his robe, Cratchit delays. He doesn’t want to leave the party.
It’s not difficult to see ourselves here. We rush through December putting out little “fires”—deadlines, parties, travel plans, gift lists—so focused on managing the season that we miss its light.
Even when reminders of Christmas’ deeper meaning appear, we can become preoccupied with the details, the preparations, the noise.
“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him.”— Luke 12:35–36
For Group Discussion
1. Think of a time when you realized you were so busy “doing Christmas” that you weren’t actually experienc-ing it. What did that look like?
2. During the Christmas season, what tends to distract you most from reflection or spiritual focus?
3. In Luke 10:38–42, Martha is busy with preparations while Mary sits and listens. Which do you relate to more during this season? Why?
4. In Psalm 46:10, we’re told to “Be still.” What would stillness realistically look like for you in December?
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