I love Christmas and everything about it. I love the music, the lights, the decorations, the shopping, and the endless family festivities and traditions. It is my favorite time of the year…a time of goodwill and cheer, a time where we think of other’s needs and wants more than our own. A season that is thought to be so magical, yet not everyone celebrates merrily. So many experience depression and loneliness this time of the year. A time where joyful celebration is the essence, yet utter silence, void, and pain become the substance. Life is full of experiences. From joyful ones that lead to happy memories, to tragic ones that leave us broken and scarred.
Over 2,000 years ago a baby boy in a manger was born in a little town of Bethlehem, he brought us the greatest gifts of all. Not only did he freely give us the gift of salvation but he also gave us the gift of peace, the gift of companionship and never having to walk alone, the gift of friendship and laying our burdens on him instead of us bearing that load. The gift of compassion and mercy, where mercy seems impossible, with him it’s possible.
This Christmas, keep in mind that even if you’re not struggling, others may be. So take the time and reach out to them. Do your best to spread the Christmas cheer. But if you are struggling, I pray you find comfort and refuge in the true meaning of Christmas and the gifts extended to you. Absorb every lesson possible from your life experiences, your pain, and loneliness, and surrender the rest to the one who can carry your cross and wipe away your tears.
