During a season filled with peace and joy, it’s painful to experience grieving at Christmastime. But that’s what many people do. They celebrate. Simultaneously, they grieve.
There are always losses in life. Sometimes, these losses almost consume the space meant to be filled with peace and joy. Strategically, there are ways to keep these spaces free for healthy processes – even at Christmastime.
Many cherished Christmas carols talk about joy. Consider Joy To The World – “Joy to the world, the Lord has come.” Or While By My Sheep – “Joy, joy, joy! (echo) joy, joy, joy.” If you are looking for joy at Christmastime, you are joined by millions of people.
Interestingly, Paul starts every single letter he wrote in the New Testament with wishes of grace and JOY to his readers.
So, how’s your joy as Christmas approaches?
Many cherished Christmas carols talk about peace. Consider Silent Night – “sleep in heavenly peace.” Or, Hark The Herald Angels – “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.” Yes, for centuries people have yearned for peace. Particularly, peace at Christmastime.
Let’s face it. This world really needs peace. Interestingly, peace starts in each individual heart. Equally, lasting peace only comes from the “Prince of Peace” – Jesus Christ.
So, peace at Christmastime . . .
It’s Thanksgiving! Time for a “self-check” on gratitude. A mindset of gratitude makes a huge difference, even when things are difficult or painful.
So, if you had a Gratitude Scale that measured how thankful you are, where would you score on a scale 1-10?
Let’s explore “mindset of gratitude.” But first – let’s have some fun with that Gratitude Scale we mentioned.
Recently, I connected with a dear friend and learned about her struggle with cancer. Not only her courage to face cancer, but the tenacity and grit it takes to go through chemo treatments. On top of that, to deal with side effects. Little sleep, loss of hair, skin so sensitive you can’t comfortably wear a hat or light scarf. Terrible pain. Time off work. Daily responsibilities still demand attention. Without a doubt, it takes courage and confidence to make it through such difficult circumstances.
How I admire this friend. Each day, she rises into new courage as she manages these realities. Plus, she remains confident God will carry her through. At the same time, she is honest and authentic about her sufferings.
So, let’s dive into what it means to live with courage and confidence each day – no matter what your situation.
Have you ever desperately cried out “change me, Lord?” I have.
I vividly remember a time I said this many years ago. Challenges had piled up. Demands were high. Expectations even higher. I was pulled in too many directions. And I felt overwhelmed.
Hope is so important, don’t you agree? Sometimes it seems hope just . . . disappears! Or – you can barely it see through a pinhole of hope. Regardless, just like –
Life-saving fluids enter your body through a “pinhole” of an IV needle.
– so the “pinhole” of hope gives you a more realistic view of life. This is critical – especially during difficult seasons.
This is #2 in a series on hope. I’m excited about this series. I hope you will be, too.
To be without hope is discouraging – even exhausting. Equally, a message of hope is such welcome news. Perhaps you need that right now.
This is #1 in a series on hope. So, stay tuned!
I’m thinking of a specific person. Actually, a remarkable person. As I got to know and interact with them, I realized they are the perfect example of what we discuss today – well-thought, well-spoken, well-lived. Over time, I came to deeply respect this person because they represent a very well-lived life!
Who comes to your mind as you consider today’s content?
OK! Think WINTER! Freezing cold. You feel exposed – at risk. Plus – you’re shivering! Next thing you know, someone offers you a soft, comfortable, big blanket. Plus, it’s an electric blanket, already plugged in – cozy and warm. This word picture shows what it’s like to be covered by God’s love. Particularly in the cold of the world where you are sometimes exposed and at risk.
