With Christmas just around the corner, I bet, like mine, your world is a whirlwind of ribbons, wrapping paper, and the quest for that elusive ‘perfect’ gift (which, let’s be honest, probably exists only in Hallmark movies). Juggling the Christmas party invites with looking like we’ve all got it together? Well, spoiler alert: I definitely don’t! 😂
In the midst of this festive frenzy, my heart is meandering down a more reflective path. The past couple of years has felt like a rollercoaster, with the passing away of three beloved family members. If you’re reading this and nodding because you’ve been there too, know that you’re not alone in this journey of loss and healing.
Ever had those moments where you just want to be a human burrito, wrapped up in your duvet, letting the tears flow? I sure have. But then life buzzes on the doorbell – work, bills, our precious kids, and the never-ending to-do list. It waits for no one, not even when our hearts are heavy with loss.
And isn’t it just a bit rude? How dare the world keep spinning when our hearts are breaking? It feels almost offensive how the sun still sets, how the days dare to end and a new one begins. It’s as if time is trying to quickly fast-forward me into this new reality of life without my loved ones. How just rude! I don’t want the future just yet; I want to linger in the past, cherishing those moments when they were right here with us. But here we are, trudging on with our wounded hearts, carrying this burden of grief.
Dear friends, in these moments, let’s lean into the comforting arms of our God. When the night is long and sleep eludes you, remember that you’re enveloped in the warm embrace of a loving God. Find refuge under His wings and solace in the peace He provides – a peace that surpasses all understanding. 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 is such a beautiful scripture for times like this. It says: ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Today, let’s pray together:
“Heavenly Father, wrap Your loving arms around those of us with aching hearts this Christmas. In the quiet of the night, when the memories flood in and sleep seems miles away, let us feel Your presence. Shelter us, comfort us, and remind us that in You, we find everything we need. You are more than enough, today and always. Amen.”
So, as you dash through the snow (or the shopping mall), remember to pause and breathe. It’s okay to miss them, it’s okay to laugh, and it’s perfectly okay to cry while standing in the Christmas lights aisle. You’re beautifully human, and in this shared journey of faith, love, and memories, you’re never alone.
