When I was growing up, I admit it, I watched a lot of Hallmark Christmas movies. I was absorbed with the corny plot line (yes plot line) where the girl would always get the perfect guy and kiss under the mistletoe as the clock struck 12am on Christmas Day. Yet as I get older, I realize that the story is a little different.
“I’ll be home for Christmas
You can plan on me”
Missing a loved one over the holiday season; everyone’s felt it. I am dating a United States Marine who is currently on a six- month deployment, missing all of the holiday season. Whether it’s a significant other, a close relative, like a grandmother or grandfather, or just a loyal friend, everyone’s felt that sense of grief and longing. It’s like a sharp jab during the laughter and joy of the holidays, thinking about how much you want your loved one with you. Sometimes Christmas isn’t a Hallmark movie.
“Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light gleams”
It’s easy to wallow. It’s easy to focus on who isn’t home for Christmas. But let’s try and focus on who is here. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 1:3 that we serve the God of all comfort. His comfort and love are here with us and it will always be with us. We may not have our beloved family member or our wonderful significant other with us this holiday season but, as Isaiah 9:6 says we have the “(…) Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” with us. Take heart knowing that you are not alone in your sadness but instead of looking down at your sadness, look up to the loving God we serve and find comfort. Embrace him and his love this season and always!
Verses:
2 Corinthians 1:3
Isaiah 9:6
Romans 15:13