The holidays don’t always promise happiness for everyone, especially for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. When I lost my father, I struggled with Christmas joy–I felt neither merry nor bright. Normally, I’m Mrs. Christmas in all my gaudy splendor. But not last year. Thankfully, my heavenly Father walked me through the Christmas story from a different perspective. He used those familiar verses to remind me of His great love. I’m sharing those devotions with anyone suffering loss this holiday. May they help you like they helped me. Enjoy the first devotion in this post and go here for the free and complete download.
Day One
My Story
My father had passed at the end of October. Then, December had rolled in with it’s promise of happiness and frivolity. I forced myself to go shopping in the hopes the activity would cheer me up. I stepped into one of my favorite local boutiques and surveyed the elegant decorations. Instead of making me happy, the twinkle lights stung, and the jolly figurines mocked. I felt assaulted by Christmas. Everyone around was filled with joy, and I felt empty. I would have burst into tears, but my proper Southern upbringing told me such public displays were unacceptable. I went home and prayed, feeling God’s presence closer than I had ever felt.
God’s Story
When Gabriel spoke to Mary, he told her the Lord was with her. God promises over and over that he will not leave us. You may feel numb and alone, but you are not. God is with you and will not abandon you. He is right there beside you, wrapping you in his arms.
“And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.” Psalm 9:10
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38
Your Story
How does Christmas’ approach make you feel?
six5mom 