Photo by C.A. Lovely 12/2011
It’s hard to believe we’re back at Christmas Corner again. As soon as Thanksgiving is over, the holiday race begins.
Christmas…everyone’s favorite holiday.
Or maybe not. It may bring happy memories or sad regrets.
Wherever you are this holiday season, I invite you to join me in my seasonal goal. To fix my focus upon Jesus.
Not because the holiday celebrates the birth of the Savior. But because He is my Savior 365 days of the year. Sometimes in the roller coaster of emotions the holiday brings, we forget what it’s all about. I want to center my gaze upon Him. Through every relationship, every event, every celebration. To refuse to be pulled into the frantic pace and mindless materialism.
By simply spending time with Jesus every day and centering my will in Him. Doesn’t that sound like an awesome Christmas?
Yes, it does sound like an awesome Christmas and, yes, it brings memories. My sister died Dec. 22, 1999. On Dec. 24th, Christmas Eve, I conducted her memorial service. I miss her very much especially at this time of year. She knew Jesus and I was privileged to have had a vision of angels surrounding her bed when she went home to be with the Lord. So even if it’s bittersweet to remember sis, I do keep my focus on the Lord Jesus Christ as best I can for He is the only One who can bring “comfort and joy” in all the seasons. Cynthia, may this Christmas Season bring all the love and joy you deserve as you keep your gaze upon Him. Peace, Anita
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Comment by Anita — November 25, 2012
Anita,
I understand the struggle with emotions. My mom died in the beginning of Dec. several years ago. It is most difficult when you lose loved ones during the holiday season. But how beautiful that God gave you such a vision. As you stated, He alone is the Comforter. We are so fortunate to know Jesus as our Savior. Keeping our eyes on Him, I pray we are able to bless others this Christmas. Thank you for sharing your heart.
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Comment by admin — November 26, 2012
Yes, Cynthia, since my dad’s death in 1994, I have to work hard to avoid getting down at Christmas. I miss him so much, especially at the holidays.
Hope you have a blessed season as we remember the Gift and the Giver!
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Comment by Vonda Skelton — November 25, 2012
Vonda,
So many people struggle during the holidays but we’re always presented with that unrealistic perfect picture of Christmas. Both of my parents are gone now so the holidays are always difficult. I do understand how you miss your dad, I know you were so close to him. Oh, what a grand reunion we’ll all have some day! I find keeping busy helps me to focus on others. Can’t be alone too much with my thoughts this time of year…so we all learn to work around it the best we can. Praying that your Christmas will be specially blessed this year, my friend.
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Comment by admin — November 26, 2012
I am going to be early this time. Merry Christmas, everyone.
In 2010, my daughter went through all our decades of family Christmas photos and made a video with music. It memorialized family members who had passed away that year. There was not a dry eye, but the beautiful, happy memories also brought smiles.
Our loved ones would want us to smile, girls, by embracing each joyous day. Squeeze the dickens out of them all. Love is eternal.
Thank you all for being transparent. “We can minister the best where we have hurt the most.” Nothing in God is wasted, especially grief. Shine forth, my sisters, shine forth.
Merry Christmas.
Melody
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Comment by Melody — November 29, 2012
Melody,
I love the line, “Squeeze the dickens out of them all.” Yes, we need to appreciate all those loved ones we still have with us and not take them for granted.
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Comment by admin — November 30, 2012