Managing the Holiday Calendar

The holiday season is one of the most meaningful—and most demanding—times of the year for pastors and ministry leaders. Between extra services, seasonal expectations, family commitments, and the pressure to deliver “your best sermons of the year,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or spiritually drained. In this episode, we dive into the real struggles pastors face during Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas, and explore practical, life-giving solutions that help you preach with clarity, creativity, and a centered heart. We’ll talk about avoiding burnout, protecting your family rhythms, finding margin when the calendar is packed, and keeping your own soul nourished while pouring into others. Whether you’re stepping into your first holiday season or your twenty-first, this conversation will help you navigate the busiest time of year with wisdom, balance, and renewed joy in the calling.

Johnny Levy is a CEO, Author, Poet, Connector, Dreamer. He creates communities of authentic connection for mutual progress and writes about his passions: Superpowers, Faith, Identity, Creativity, Human Stories. You can find Johnny at https://substack.com/@johnnylevy and pick up his book HERE

(00:00) Walking in Victory With God
(02:43) The Concept of Firstfruits
(08:00) Prioritizing God in Everyday Life
(21:26) Provision Through Honoring God First
(26:47) The Power of First Fruits
(34:58) Faithful Giving and Prioritizing God
(48:20) The Joy of First Fruits Giving

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Ever wonder how seasoned pastors navigate ministry's toughest challenges? Passing the Pulpit brings generations together for insightful, encouraging conversations where veteran leaders mentor emerging ones on life, faith, and shepherding God's people. Each episode mixes hard-won wisdom with youthful enthusiasm, covering everything from church planting and powerful preaching to conflict resolution and soul care—complete with stories of triumphs and hilarious missteps.

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