Christmas looked a lot different this year. Usually by 1pm on Christmas Day, my entire family is picking off of the Christmas ham, talking loudly while surrounding each other in the kitchen, and secretly sneaking Christmas cookies or some other sweet sprawled out on the kitchen counter. Hearing yourself think is always close to impossible over the sounds of laughter, both deep and higher-pitched, and fellowship. Though this year was different, something about it made it one of my favorites because it helped me stop and realize what truly is important.
This was the first year we celebrated Christmas without my grandma. She went to heaven earlier this year. Before, every Christmas Eve we—-my parents, siblings, cousins, aunt and uncle—would eat dinner at her house then we’d pack up the Christmas presents under her tiny four foot tree decorated with strings colorful lights and homemade ornaments from when my siblings and I were in elementary school. We’d fill up the cars with presents and stockings, make our ten minute drive back to my house, and eagerly wait for morning after making Santa’s obligatory cookies for Christmas Day.
That didn’t happen this year. Instead, Christmas Eve consisted making gingerbread cookies with my family, playing with my sister’s new dog, and reading my new book while my family watched the basketball game.
Staying safe as a family has remained an important value throughout this year because there are many of my family members that are immunocompromised and/or suffering from other underlying conditions, especially during the Holidays. So things had to look different.
Cue the masks, COVID-19 tests, virtual gingerbread competitions, quarantining, FaceTime calls, gift drop offs, numerous “Merry Christmas” texts, gift cards, and checks.
…and to be honest, as I reflect on this day, the only thing I can say is what a blessing.
What a blessing to be surrounded by the small amount of family that could gather even if it meant wearing N95 masks throughout the day. What a blessing that my parents were able to receive the historical first round of the COVID-19 vaccine to keep their patients and family safe. What a blessing it was to serve other families in our community during this time. What a blessing to take a deep breath and not struggle or feel the aching pain of loneliness in my chest. What a blessing to get the chance sit across from a cousin and aunt who I haven’t seen in months! What a blessing to not have to worry about the food we would eat. What a blessing.
Matthew 18:20 says “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst” and man oh man did I feel God in our home all day long. Not because we did anything religious per say, but the fact that I know there are so many who have lost so much—jobs, fathers, mothers, teachers, doctors, neighbors, grandparents, leaders, siblings, security, etc.—and God showed me his grace while I scanned the room and saw my family safe, smiling, and still filled with hope. Just being able to be in the presence of my loved ones this Christmas was more than enough.
I believe that there are always little blessing God shows us each day. 2020 has truly reminded me the importance of being thankful for the smallest of things like the breath in my lungs to the roof over my head. To all of those who have felt lost this year and have found the Holiday season difficult and daunting, I want to remind you of Psalm 34:18. It says, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Keep the faith and stay strong. Your feelings are valid. Your pain is valid. Your frustration and mistrust is valid. But this is not the end of your story regardless of the trajectory of this year. Victory, whatever that looks like for you, still belongs to Him which means it still belongs to you.
May you be reminded of all the little things that God has intentionally put in your life—yes, morning coffee counts as one—to remind you that:
1) You are His son or daughter (Galatians 4:6)
2) You are loved (John 3:16)
3) You are never alone and even though you may not feel it, your strength comes from Him (Isaiah 41:10).
A lot of things looked different this year. You’ve probably had to suppress a lot of those emotions for school or work or just to function in your daily life. Don’t forget to reflect on those feelings and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t feel hurt or sad about it. But look at you, you did it. You’re doing it, every single day. That’s all you can ask from yourself. That’s all I can ask of you and I am so glad you continually choose to stick around to see yourself grow during times where it seemed in what seems like a drought. Thank you for finding the light in each day.
Keep staying safe and protecting the ones you love, my friends. We will make it through this together. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
ry Christmas){kind=link}