Odds are, I have said these words here in this space before, probably more than once. The holidays can be hard. Amidst the fa-la-la-la-la and the merriment of the season, not everyone is filled with the Christmas spirit. Life has its challenges. Money is tight, stress levels are up, and if you have someone that is missing from your family gathering this year, you may not feel much like celebrating of any kind.
Times like now, because I am one of those who doesn’t necessarily feel the need to celebrate, we have to lean on memories, our faith, and look for a reason to find joy somewhere in our midst. For me, it is the two precious grandbabies that I will see. It is having all of my kids under one roof and I have to admit, I am excited to give out one special gift this year. I also find comfort and joy in the helping of others like angel trees and charity organizations like Cypress Basin Hospice and For the Sake of One. Giving to others can be a catalyst for joy during the holidays.
The fact is, regardless, not everyone is happy. In the hustle and bustle, it is easy to let things bother us and take away from the happiness. I was kinda in that place this morning, until a word from Heaven came through the voice of Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church.