If I am honest, for many years, Christmas time has been hard and clouded with depression and angst.  This year, I am not fighting the depression but it hasn’t been an easy season.  I have watched hard things happen to those I love and found myself feeling deep sorrow.  I am experiencing sorrow and peace coexisting in a way that has left me with the deep assurance of the hope that we have in Christ.

As I reflect on the birth of Christ, I am comforted to know that He is God with us.  The baby born in Bethlehem is our deliverer and hope.  He is the promise that through Him all things will be made right.

A few years ago, my mom got me a “Peanuts” Nativity set with all of the “Peanuts” characters. I look forward to setting it out every Christmas season. My favorite Character of the set is Peppermint Patty. The expression captured in her face is one of Awe and pure joy of seeing Jesus, our Savior, the promised Messiah.

As I look at her each year, I long to be that in awe of Him.  I don’t know if I will ever fully be able to wrap my head around how God sent His only son to be born to die to break the chains and bondage of sin.  The King of Kings became fully human to dwell among us.  He drew near to us and was Emmanuel, God with us.

The hard things in life don’t stop just because it is Christmas time and the “most wonderful time of the year”. I don’t know what you may be facing right now, but if you are struggling to find joy this Christmas, you are not alone. Lean into Him. Behold Him. I pray that this Christmas, you experience Him as Emmanuel, God with us. May we be in Awe of Him and may we land on His grace. Merry Christmas!