The holidays are a time for celebrating, yet many of us dread this season and cannot wait for the calendar page to turn to January 1. Some imagine the holidays as a scene from It’s a Wonderful Life, and there are others whose reality is more like Scrooged. Maybe you feel burdened by loss as you begin reminiscing and thinking back to days when life was simpler. The impact of loss appears in various ways. No matter your circumstances, a heart seems more sensitive at Christmas. As the days of Christmas draw near, if we seek after the wonderful counselor of our hearts it may ease some of the heaviness.
A wounded heart comes in many shapes and sizes. We may learn someone is grieving due to the estrangement of a family member. Perhaps you’ve never thought of this as grief, but some have not spoken with family members in years. It’s more common than one imagines. As other families gather, Christmas is often the time when these losses are magnified.
When a heart is hurting, even the twinkling lights, pretty colors, and beautiful songs aren’t enough to ease a deep ache within. For many who have experienced loss, they freely admit that many of these things exacerbate the hurt. Yet, even as we acknowledge that holidays can be challenging, there is also a reason to lift our heads and let our light shine. Focusing on the reason for this season – Jesus’ birth – helps to reduce some of the stressors we encounter. The words from Isaish 9:6 are a magnificent reminder:
“For unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder. These will be his royal titles: “Wonderful,” “Counselor,” “The Mighty God,” “The Everlasting Father,” “The Prince of Peace.” TLB
If you’re feeling alone, this is the best time to remember we have a Wonderful Counselor of our hearts in Jesus. If your heart is hurting, run to the Everlasting Father, the most attentive listener and counselor we will have. If you’re feeling unrest in your spirit, reach out to the Prince of Peace, who gives us a peace that surpasses all understanding. And, no matter where you are, you have a Mighty God who is with you always and will never leave you.
When the world portrays “all is merry and bright,” we should consider that may not be true for all. We never know what is happening in someone’s life and should try to be more sensitive to those surrounding us. It’s the perfect time of year to apply the golden rule and treat others the way you want to be treated. Let’s be the hands, hearts, and feet of Jesus to those around us and be mindful of those we encounter. Extend love, kindness, and care, knowing they may be traveling this road with a wounded heart.
“But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.” Psalm 3:3