Christmas Blues
"The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”- Luke 2:20
Silver and Gold. Red and Green. These are colors most associated with the splendor and specialness of the Christmas season. There is one other color, not often mentioned, that can be unexpectedly and very deeply felt during Christmas. For many people, myself included, there is the acknowledging and dealing with Christmas BLUES.
My Christmas blues occur almost immediately after the final present under the tree is unwrapped. We go from a month-long celebration of the gift of Jesus’ birth and all He brings, to taking down the tree and decorations, going back to work and school, and the radio no longer playing our holiday favorites. I quickly miss the season’s celebration and the fullness it delivers.
For others, the shade of blue is much darker due to the loss of a loved one, distance from family (physical or relational), a health or financial crisis, a demanding work schedule, or a season that feels scattered and the unknown of what’s to come. No matter the circumstance that is trying to rob your Christmas, the Lord is wanting you to receive joy today! In John 16:22 Jesus prepares His friends for His departure by speaking this promise, “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”
A few Christmases ago, the Holy Spirit helped me to see the permanence and pulsating work of joy. The lesson came in a simple manner but had a profound effect. I realized that through various streaming services (i.e.-YouTube, Spotify, Apple iTunes) I could listen to Christmas carols all year long! Just as I had access to enjoy the music of the season 365 days a year, the Lord provides access for us to enjoy the Christmas gifts of peace, joy, light, and hope in every season of life! In Psalm 16:11 David declares, “You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.”
Even as we arrive to December 1st, may each of us choose His joy for all we face as the perfect gift for every need we have!