Rejoicing, mourning and harmony this Christmas
Advent
Bittersweet
Bittersweet perfectly encapsulates the experience many have this time of the year. Firsts are celebrated – first-time Moms, first baby steps, major milestones, first Christmases together, but also last Christmases are reflected upon. Grief and sadness trail not too far behind.
The joy of those reunited with family and enjoying the holiday season together throw the heartache and suffering of others into stark relief. Personally, I have so much to be grateful and thankful for – no major disaster has “come near my tent,” the solace of Psalm 91.
Sad tidings
But the same cannot be said for some around me. The last few weeks alone have seen friends and family face health scares or have to deal with unexpected, devastating news.
The news cycle is depressing as well. War rages and turmoil is ubiquitous. War aside, many people experience painful, unresolved conflict in their daily lives. Keeping the peace is exhausting, while conflict threatens to erupt at any given moment.
No matter the situation, graciously, God is still God. That remains true whether the state of one’s health has deteriorated, the job opportunity has failed to materialise or family members find themselves in hospital.
Glad tidings
But life goes on and social media platforms continue to grace us with images of Christmas markets, exuberant shoppers and those preparing for this wonderful time of the year –lives seemingly oozing sheer bliss and joy.
Further scrolling quickly reveals images of new-born babies bringing much delight to their families and cute, adorable puppies lighting up the lives of their lucky owners.
The beauty of our faith is that we can be happy with those who are experiencing a season of joy right now or mourn with those who are going through a rough patch. God is in them both and allows us to give to those as they need. Personally, that has always been one of the most incredible aspects of the Christian faith.
The fruit of the spirit is love, joy and peace – the spirit of Christmas. Yet, God also can sympathise with the pain we suffer and is right there with us through it all; always willing to protect and comfort us. The latter is further evidence of His great love for us.
2024 fast approaching
With 2024 right on our doorstep, may we find the time to reflect on the year gone by and revel in the blessings richly bestowed. My sincere hope is that suffering, which none of us are immune to, has produced perseverance, character and hope to equip us going forward.
I trust that you will embrace the gift that is life and the privilege of being granted yet another year.
Thank you for joining me on my Advent journey these past few weeks. God willing, catch you in 2024. Until then, be blessed.
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