Christmas In My Heart 

I can’t believe it’s December with Christmas around the corner, and I’m having a hard time getting into the holiday mood. It has been a difficult year, especially with breast cancer surgery. But I am beyond thankful that God has given me a great pathology report. However, even though my spirit is jumping for joy my energy level is running low. The doctor says that’s normal, which may be the first time anyone has ever called me “normal.” 

I’m thinking some of you might also be lacking a little pre-holiday excitement. So how do we do Christmas when life’s stresses try to take our joy? I don’t know about you, but I pray. I tell God I’m tired, unhappy, lonely, sad, sick—whatever I’m feeling. Too often I focus on my fears, failures and fatigue rather than positive things and even sink into a pity-party. Sound familiar? I promise there is a better way to spend Christmas and here’s what I know. 

Somewhere in the deepest part of our hearts, God speaks peace. It may be only a whisper or it may be as loud as thunder. It may come as a call or text from a friend. It may be a special feeling. It’s different for all of us. But somewhere in the stillness of our hearts, God speaks love. It could be at a Christmas Eve candlelight service or a simple family gathering. It may be while serving food at a homeless shelter or sitting beside a loved one in the hospital. It may even be while shopping. Only you will know that voice—that special feeling. 

And Christmas? Well, it comes whether we are ready or not and the great thing is we get to choose what kind of Christmas we have. It can be a big celebration with lots of guests or a quiet time with friends or family. For me, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, no matter the place or type of celebration. No other gift is needed. As long as I have Jesus it will be Christmas in my heart. Wishing you the same!