Christmas is a magical time of year. It’s filled with love, laughter, memories, and traditions. Christmas can also bring up the pain and hurt that we’ve experienced throughout the past year; especially if we have lost somebody close to us. It’s okay to let yourself feel the hurt and the sorrow and the pain. That’s what Jesus came for - to fill in the cracks of our brokenness, shame, pain, and loneliness. This Christmas if you are experiencing loneliness, hurt, or brokenness I know you are not alone.

Christmas this year is much different for me. Yes, I am surrounded by family who loves me and friends who care about me. Yes, Jesus was born so that I could live a life in His light. But, I still feel the pain and emptiness that come with having my very first Christmas without two very special people in my life. As memories are running through my head of how my grandma would always tell stories about saving her wrapping paper when my mom was growing up and how my grandpa would sing Christmas carols at the top of his lungs, I am reminded that even if I feel pain and emptiness during this time I can still radiate God’s joy.

You’re probably wondering how I can radiate joy in the midst of pain and feeling empty or lonely and that’s okay. But, here’s how … love Jesus, remember the ones that you’ve lost, thank God for the memories you have, and celebrate Christmas with all your heart. The people you’ve lost are still in your heart. They are continually with you and I know they are cheering you on from Heaven.

I pray that your people knew Jesus like mine did. I pray that they helped you cultivate traditions that you never want to let go of. I pray that you know they would want you to enjoy this day because Jesus is alive and brings light into our brokenness and darkness! God makes beautiful things out of dust and if you invite God into your Christmas this year I know it can be beautiful even in the midst of the pain you are feeling. He gave us His son who was born of a virgin and I know that if our God can do that - He is immeasurably more powerful than I could ever imagine.

“Thanks be to God for his incredible gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:15

Merry Christmas, my sweet friends!

xoxo,

Rachel Marie