It’s Christmas time! Who doesn’t love it? Well, plenty of people—including some believers. I love this time of year for several reasons…
Love.
Hope.
Peace.
Joy.
And celebrating my birthday near the day we celebrate Jesus’ birth!
But others find this the most loveless, hopeless, anxiety-producing, and depressing time of year. All is not calm or bright. Maybe it’s due to broken relationships or the loss of loved ones, but whatever the reason, the pain is real and needs acknowledgement.
I’ve written before about the challenges in my relationship with my parents and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel a twinge of sadness during the holidays. I think about how the emotional distance between us impacts their relationship with my children, no matter my attempts to avoid it. And though I’ve worked through much of those abandonment issues with Jesus, it certainly wasn’t something I ever felt welcome to share with other believers this time of year. Even though I wasn’t the only one feeling a little blue.
Are we too busy putting on happy masks that silently tell each other to buck up and push through?
I’m looking forward to my birthday, baking Jesus’ birthday cake with my kids, discussing “What God Wants for Christmas,” watching everyone open presents, and seeing their beautiful faces around the table.
But if you find Christmas difficult, you’re not alone.
You have a Confidante and Friend. You can pour. out. your. heart. to Him. Let Jesus love on you and lead you to safe people you can share with. People who will love on you too.
Jesus came to save you, even from your sorrow. And He is faithful.
With love,
Vanessa
Vine Life Faith 