![]() They say Christmas is "the most wonderful time of the year." And this is generally true. But in a broken world, this holiday can be the worst time of the year. For some, 2015 will always be remembered for a tragedy that occurred in their life. For others it was 2014. For others, it was 1954. While we mark the birth of Christ around the same time that we usher in a new year, feelings of elation and anticipation can be overthrown by grief and regret. Christmas gatherings will be less because someone is missing from the table or around the tree. It is not fair for us to expect victims of death, loss, sin, bad choices, etc. to be happy just because we are celebrating a holiday. Just as in life, struggle is just as much a part of the Bible as is victory. The Psalms overflow with the cries of a person in despair who longs for joy. Though grief will occasionally rock our ship, it does not have to determine our course. I can't make someone happy who has experienced the worst life has to offer. But I can offer the greatest hope a broken life can know. Yesterday I posted a passage from the prophet Isaiah. One of the verses hit me hard, so I want to post that again today. This is especially for those who are going to go through some dark valleys this holiday season. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; a light has dawned on those living in the land of darkness. (Isaiah 9:2) In this prophetic word, the writer does not neglect, diminish or deny the darkness in which all walk at some point. What he does is recognize that darkness is not the conqueror of light. We live in a dark world. But light has dawned. Perhaps you have noticed that hard situations are more difficult to handle in the dark. They seem to crush you. When the day comes... even if the problem is still there, it is easier to push through. The night is crushing. The light is restorative. If you are facing the worst Christmas ever, please know that as you walk through the dark place, if you will look through the tears, you will see a light. His name is Jesus. He doesn't erase the loss... but He can rule over it. You may always remember this as the worst Christmas ever, but know that it will not destroy you if you will walk in the light as it overtakes you. [Bible quotes are from the Holman Christian Standard Bible, unless otherwise noted.] Find more of David’s work at Heart Of Ministry. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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AuthorMy name is David, and I want to know God more, and help other people find Him. Archives
March 2019
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