May I be honest with you, my friend? While Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year, it is also one of the most difficult times of the year. I confess there are days that I struggle with an overwhelming bout of sadness. This year has been challenging, and I find myself weary from the struggle. I miss people who won’t be here for Christmas. I grieve over situations I cannot change or fix. I am excited to celebrate my Savior’s birth. I am enjoying all the little things we do as Christmas draws near, but I confess there is a piece of my heart that aches.
Perhaps some of you understand this more than others. Perhaps you know all too well what I am trying to explain. Perhaps you understand all too well the mixed emotions that I am describing. If so, may I whisper a few words of hope to you? The One that we celebrate; He understands how you feel. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that He understands and sympathizes with us. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us that we can give Him all our anxieties because He cares for us.
The Savior whose birth we celebrate is where we turn for hope and encouragement. He understands our emotions, even when we may not, and He can help us through them. I have found that when I keep my focus on Him and intentionally remind myself of why I am celebrating this season, the burdens of my heart aren’t quite so heavy. I am so grateful for the hope I have found in Him, and I am so grateful that He cares about the things that are burdening my heart.
Dear heart, if you are in need of some peace and hope today; I hope you will look to the One who can give it to you. I hope you will be encouraged to go to the One who loves you more than you can imagine and let Him speak comfort to you. As Christmas draws near, let the One we celebrate bring the comfort and peace your heart seeks. If the Christmas blues come calling, let Him encourage your heart and lift your spirits as only He can.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13 – Katrina Douglas
