I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
As we all are experiencing this Advent/Christmas season is different, however different doesn’t have to be bad. Different is simply different, and different can be good. This Thanksgiving my mom became ill with Shingles. If you haven’t had the new 2-part vaccine, please get it. She has been in a lot of pain and dealing with the rash. It all came to a head last Sunday; the pain was excruciating. When I was finally able to get an additional prescription for her to make her skin not feel like it was burning, life was better. We watched the tape of our online virtual Christmas concert on my phone while laying on her bed. She loved it. She loved the music and how the sanctuary was decorated. That concert was the only Christmas event that she has seen this year. While lying there with her, I made a mental picture in my heart and mind to remember that moment, so I will always have that peaceful memory of watching our Christmas concert on my phone while lying there with my mom on her bed. I don’t think that event would have happened if this whole COVID/lockdown thing happened. In fact, I know it wouldn’t because I would have been singing in the concert that night, if this was a normal Christmas season.
Yes, there is a lot of trouble going on in the world this year, and we are a long way of being out of it. However, at Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus who overcame the world. Jesus knew that there would always be trouble in this world, but having him as our friend, teacher and redeemer gives us peace and hope and that is what we celebrate this this season.
This Christmas may you be able to take the time that we have been given of this quieter Christmas to relish those special moments with our family and friends. May the peace of Jesus Christ whose birth we celebrate this, and every Christmas be with you now and always.
Gracious and loving God, while we are missing many things this year, don’t let us miss you. Help us to see you in all the ways people help and care for one another. Help us to remember that you came into this world in a dark time to be the light of the world. Help us to share the light that you give us with others, the light of love and hope. Amen
Stay well, stay safe and be the hope you wish to see in the world.
Hugs, Suzanne