Jason Dyba

Storytelling for the Holidays: Reflect, Connect, and Create

"I think it's important to in some ways realize there's two different things that are at work in the way that we talk about God in our own stories ... I don't think our individual stories have to be the absolute proof for a deity. I just don't think just my micro story of what happened to me yesterday is going to be able to do all that. I think that the best proof of God and Jesus and the entire Christian faith is everything that God has put into place in the universe is a testament to the existence of God. And, the entire Old Testament is the evidence of a God who interacts with humankind and Jesus coming to earth and dying and then coming out of the grave three days later is pretty good proof ... to know that he is in fact who he says he is. To me, that actually is the defense and the reason for why I believe anything.

There's a foundation of my faith that exists objectively outside of myself that gives me hope, and my life has expressions of that which reflect that in a multitude of different ways.

Oftentimes, the most powerful personal stories that I hear from people are not the stories where everything gets buttoned up. It's the stories where things actually don't get fixed, but that what they walk through with is a peace that is beyond what you can imagine. I mean, I do stories with parents who've lost their children and who stand on the other side of it and have a peace and a resolution and have a story to tell that actually is uplifting when everything about what happened to them would make you think the opposite. That's really powerful to sit and hear."

– Jason Dyba

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As the holidays approach, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the power of stories—both in sharing our own and in drawing out the tales of others. Recently, we had the chance to talk with storyteller Jason Dyba, who offered insight into how even the smallest stories, shared with sincerity, can create moments of real connection and encouragement. If you'd like to do some reflecting, use the questions below to think about your own story and the stories of others in this season.

DIY Storytelling Workshop

Reflect on Your Own Story – and Keep it Simple

Jason suggests looking for “micro-moments” as we prepare to share with others. These small snapshots from our lives—like a single challenge we overcame or a moment when God showed up in unexpected ways—can sometimes speak louder than a full story. The goal isn’t to present a flawless narrative but to offer others a glimpse into who we are, even if the story itself feels incomplete. As Jason shared, “One of the easiest ways to define a story at all is just to think of it as the transition from tension to resolution... something is off course and then it gets steered into a new direction.” Focusing on a single moment can make sharing easier and more meaningful, whether you’re talking to family, friends, or colleagues.

What “micro-moment” in your life this past year revealed something deeper about who you are—and how has it shaped your journey?

Encourage Dialogue with Thoughtful Questions

For stories to bring us closer, they require two things: a willingness to share and a genuine interest in the stories of others. Asking thoughtful, open-ended questions helps create space for the people around us to feel seen and valued. Instead of sticking to small talk, try asking questions like, “What’s one thing that surprised you this year?” or “What’s something you’re thankful for, even if it didn’t go as planned?” Questions like these can draw out personal stories and give others permission to reflect and share openly.

What question could you ask someone today to help them feel seen, valued, and encouraged to share their story?

Embrace the Unpolished and Unfinished

The best stories often don’t have perfect endings. They’re honest, vulnerable, and sometimes still in progress. Jason reminds us that some of the most compelling stories are those that aren’t fully resolved. By sharing the parts of our lives where we’re still searching for answers or still learning, we invite others to do the same. The holidays can be a chance to embrace our unfinished stories and let God’s ongoing work shine through the cracks. When we allow others into these unpolished parts, we deepen our bonds and find encouragement to keep moving forward together.

What unfinished part of your story might you be brave enough to share this season—and how could it bring you closer to others?

Listen to Discover Connection and Hope

Listening might be the simplest yet most impactful part of storytelling. Jason calls it an invitation to connect, and it can be as simple as giving someone your full attention. Taking time to listen, without rushing to respond, encourages others to share what’s on their hearts. In this way, our family gatherings and holiday parties become spaces of grace where each person’s story is honored and valued. Listening to others’ stories also helps us see how God is at work in our collective lives, weaving hope into our shared experiences.

How can you make space to truly listen to someone’s story this holiday season—and what might you discover in doing so?

Let Stories Draw You Closer to God This Holiday Season

As you celebrate, consider how storytelling can be a way of discovering the presence of God in each other’s lives. Each story, whether simple or profound, is a chance to reflect the love of a God who is always near.

Where have you seen God’s love reflected in your own story or the stories of those around you?

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