What to Do if Christmas Isn’t Merry and Bright - The Crosswalk Devotional - December 16

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What to Do if Christmas Isn’t Merry and Bright
By Vivian Bricker 

Bible Reading:
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Galatians 4:4-5). 

Christmas can feel difficult for many reasons. Perhaps you’re unable to afford presents for your children. Or, you might be facing your first Christmas without a loved one. Regardless of what we are going through when Christmas approaches, we need to remember that God doesn't expect us to be merry and bright just because it is the norm. He wants us to be genuine in our emotions and not afraid to reach out to Him. 

I love Christmas because it’s the day we get to celebrate the Lord’s birth, yet I cannot run from the fact that I miss my mom terribly on this day. My mother also loved Christmas and always ensured it was a fun holiday celebration. Without her being here, it feels empty. These struggles can be really painful, especially around the holidays when we’re expected to be joyful. But it is better to address our feelings rather than to run from them. For far too long, I had the habit of running from my pain. 

Maybe this is what you are going through this Christmas as well. A loved one passed away, and you are feeling anything but merry and bright. Or maybe you and your spouse are going through a divorce, or a child is having a tough time at school, or you got laid off from your job rather than the Christmas bonus you were counting on. Regardless of what you are going through, know that God doesn't condemn you for struggling this Christmas. In fact, bring all of your troubles to Him and allow His grace to strengthen you. 

Intersecting Faith & Life:

The Apostle Paul tells us, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship” (Galatians 4:4-5). This is the message of Christmas. Jesus was sent into the world to redeem us and bring us into His family. 

Even though we are facing hardships this Christmas, we can still celebrate the Lord with our weary hearts. He will transform our weary hearts into hearts of steadfastness, strength, and hope. Reflect upon Galatians 4:4-5 and take notice of what it means to you this Christmas. Because of the Lord, everything will be made right one day. We won't have to deal with pain, agony, or hard times forever. 

The day is coming when all things will be made new. The death of loved ones, the ending of marriages, and the betrayal of friends will be things of the past. Look forward to this day, and it will engulf your heart with peace. Jesus was born into the world to save us and bring us to Him. With this truth in our hearts, we can truly shine bright for Jesus this Christmas. 

Is Christmas not feeling merry and bright this year? How can you bring these feelings to Jesus? 

Reflect upon Galatians 4:4-5 and how it applies to you this Christmas. What are your key takeaways?

Further Reading:
Psalm 145:8-13
Luke 2:11
1 Peter 5:7

Join the conversation! Share how today’s devotional encouraged or challenged you in your walk with Christ.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Drazen Zigic

Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate: https://cultivatechristianity.wordpress.com/. 

Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com! 

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