I know many of you are struggling during this holiday season. A wayward child, a dying loved one, poor health, a bare bank account, a lost job, pandemic disrupted travel creating empty seats at your holiday table – there are many challenges. Some of you are so overworked you could sleep through the holidays. Some of you can’t seem to find the joy in the “happiest season of all,” even though nothing is specifically wrong.

Whatever your situation, you are in my prayers.

A wise, dear friend died earlier this year. Her life was not an easy one. She told me once that whenever a life storm was brewing, she pictured herself and Jesus standing together just outside it. Then, as the howling wind and pounding rain started, He grabbed for her hand, and they marched into the whirlwind together. Even when it got so bad she couldn’t see him anymore, she knew he was there, holding tightly. When they came out on the other side, he was just as windblown and bedraggled as she was, but he never let go.

My friend gave me many gifts, but this vision is one of the best. It’s a striking reminder that we are not alone; God is always with us. He is a friend who will help our overworked hearts find rest. He is a confidante who understands sickness and death and loneliness- and who holds our hands even when we can’t see Him. We have a God who loves us so much he became visible in a tiny baby ready to lavish our souls with joy no matter what else we are going through. Yesterday at church, we sang, Oh Come, Oh Come Emmanuel.  The name means “God with us.”

Dear friends, take some time during this crazy hectic week to be still… and feel… and know: God is with us.

Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you;
I will uphold you with my victorious right hand (Isaiah 41:10).

If you know someone who needs this encouragement, please share. And don’t forget to ‘like’ if you do!