Come, Lord, and show me your mercy, for I am helpless, overwhelmed, in deep distress; my problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! See my sorrows; feel my pain; forgive my sins.
Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. It is the only holiday I do any decorating for. I (generally) love the winter weather. I love the lights, and the glitter and decorations – all the sights and smells and sounds. Although there are a few of you who may shudder at this revelation, I will admit that there have even been years when I started listening to Christmas music in the summer!
But how many of us have had years when we were burdened with illness, loss, financial burdens, or other devastating difficulties? How many of us have been on the verge of collapse for any number of reasons? And how many have been thankful to see the end of the year because we hang on to the hope that next year will be better? We thank God that the difficult year is finally ending, and try to keep everything intact for the beginning of the new year with the new promise that maybe the next one will be more manageable.
Even when we are lonely and hurting, there is something about the Christmas season that has the ability to lift spirits and bring joy to our hearts. I imagine that it can be different things for different people. For some it might be the music, the chance to decorate the home, or the laughter of children excited about the upcoming holiday. For others it might be a chance to try new recipes, or some time off for rest and renewal with a cozy evening in front of the fireplace. For many, the adventure of purchasing the perfect gift for a loved one is exciting. Likely, the sense of community that this holiday provides is good for many of us. Even introverts! God sets the lonely in families (Psalm 68:6). And God asks that we bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). In community, we can encourage each other to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24). There are occasions where holiday gatherings are stressful or a source of contention; but I encourage you to find the holiday gatherings that can be life giving. The ones where the community of others leaves you with a sense of joy and contentment. The kind of gathering that eases loneliness and lightens burdens.
If this holiday season is hard for you, please reach out to someone. There are so many who would love to make this season better for you. If you are one of those with the gift of encouragement, please find a lonely soul to reach out to. If you are blessed financially, quietly help someone who isn’t. If you have extra time in your schedule, find a place to volunteer. If you have the gift of hospitality, invite a few people over that you have never extended that invitation to. If you are a quiet, timid soul who has been invited to something new, maybe accept that invitation this year.
Whatever difficulties you may have encountered this year, I encourage you to find the joy in this particular holiday season. Find the hope that Jesus offers each of us. The Lord is ever merciful, especially when we are overwhelmed and in distress. Rest in the promises that God will never leave us or forsake us.
Merry Christmas. Here’s to many more.
Reflection
What might be keeping you from enjoying this holiday season? How can engaging in community with others ease that burden? Where are you seeing God’s mercy in your life?
Prayer
Comforting Spirit, I pray for each and every soul who is tired and wearied with burden. May those who are struggling find a way to reach out to the community around them, and may those communities seek to come alongside those who are weary. May we each find joy this holiday season.
