Merry Christmas.
This time of year we get to pause and celebrate with family, with friends, carrying joy filled, care free hearts.
Everyone doesn’t have that luxury unfortunately. There are those experiencing a day no different from any other.
I’m not talking about the folk in their feelings because they didn’t receive a particular gift and aren’t able to stunt for the culture.
I’m referring to those processing deep emotions.  Trying to make it through Christmas with heavy hearts.
That could be because they aren’t with their families; unable to travel due to work obligations, limited finances, adverse weather, military commitments or other obstacles.
There’s a person without a coat in freezing temps. A family without a meal, as we partake in abundant feasts.  Help is scarce, tension is high, but the gratefulness is long.
It’s seemed impossible for some I’ve spoken to dealing with the loss of a beloved family member or friend.  Parent and grandparents without children, children without a parent.  Spouse without their mate. God. Is. With. YOU.
Memories comfort, however the longing for one more laugh, hug, and conversation supersedes any potential present that can be manufactured, commercialized, and wrapped in pretty decoration with a bow on top.
Through tears, loneliness, bouts of depression – Immanuel is right there.
Despite what is missing or who is missing, there’s One who has been with each of us from the get go.  And Christmas is a celebration of His grand entrance to the world.
Listen, God is with YOU. No matter where these words may find you, I pray you’re able to have some peace today and everyday.
For those who have everyone and everything they’d need right now.  Say a prayer for those living without. Activate that prayer if you see someone and ask to buy a meal, piece of warm clothing. Check on someone who might be struggling without a dear loved one with a call or visit.
Christmas comes once a year, yet God is with us everyday, all year round. What better way to celebrate Him being with us than to be a living witness to those in a period where they’re in a major battle without someone or something?
There’s a number of resources out there to put you in touch with a human to assist.  If you can’t find any, drop me a line. I’ll do my best to list some suggestions.
It’s LOVE. God Bless and Merry Christmas again.
