Have you ever gotten one of those Christmas cards that include family updates for the year? Something like – Buffy got a full scholarship to Yale. Biff finished his residency and is going to be Chief of Staff at General Hospital. He and his lovely wife, Katherine, and their two-year old son, Biff, Jr. will be moving to New York into a lovely mansion. Biff, Jr. is an exceptional child and is already learning his multiplication tables. Okay, maybe an exaggeration but you know what I mean. When I was younger, my mom used to get a Christmas card from a family that would include things like – Jeff was in jail for this year for dealing drugs. Susie had an unexpected pregnancy but is trying to figure things out. Maybe a little too much transparency! Definitely two extremes with most of us somewhere in the middle.
I’m sure most of us have experienced some challenges over the last year. Yes, even the Biff’s and Buffy’s of the world. This world can be a dark place but Jesus is the light that shines through the dark. When I reflect back on the last year, it has definitely had its challenges for me and my family. But it also has had it’s blessings. Sometimes it’s easier to dwell on and lament the bad things than to focus on the good.
I know that the holidays can be stressful and sad at times for those that have experienced loss. And many of us may have some dysfunction in our family and the family gatherings can be “interesting.” But we can all try to focus on the reason for the season.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!
