Finding Joy in the Journey: A Christmas Reflection
Let the skies sing for Joy! Let the earth join in the chorus let oceans thunder and fields echo this ecstatic praise until every swaying tree of every forest joins in, Lifting up their songs of joyous praise to him! Psalm 96:12
This year, I hesitated to take down my Christmas tree, and I can’t shake the feeling that the twinkling lights brought warmth to my heart in a way I hadn’t expected. You see, my parents have been gone for several years, and each holiday season since their passing has been a bittersweet reminder of their absence. The last couple of years, however, compounded added loss and challenges. The joy of Christmas often felt elusive, overshadowed by the weight of loss and longing.
My dad used to say, “Life is tedious.” He was a hardworking man who understood the grind of daily life, and I often found myself echoing his sentiment during the holidays. While I remembered the true meaning of Christmas—the arrival of the baby Jesus and His incredible love for us—finding joy in the season was a struggle.
Yet, this year was different. I can’t quite explain it, but something shifted within me. I decorated my home early, filling it with festive cheer, even though many of my children wouldn’t be around to celebrate. I reveled in the beauty of the decorations and the spirit of the season, feeling a spark of joy that had been missing for so long.
My Christmas tree still stands proudly in my living room, a beacon of hope and reflection. Each ornament tells a story—a hot air balloon reminding me of my mom’s adventurous spirit, a special piece from my beloved sister-in-law, and treasures from my travels with my husband. These ornaments are not just decorations; they are vessels of memory, each flooding my heart with warmth and nostalgia.
This year, I find myself smiling more, embracing a steady joy that feels like a gentle strength within my soul. I have ornaments celebrating the miraculous birth of Jesus, and Christmas balls with scriptures engraved on them that anchor me in the true essence of Christmas. While I don’t need them to remember Him, they ignite conversations about His love and the true meaning of this beautiful season.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of a little nativity scene I used to share with my grandchildren. We’d talk about Jesus’ miraculous birth and His life, celebrating the love and grace that envelops us. Christmas may not be the exact day of His birth, but it offers us a chance to remember all He has done for us—the love, compassion, mercy, and grace we are privileged to receive.
So, as I keep my tree adorned with memories, I know the day will come when it will be packed up and put away for the coming year. I realize that joy can still be found in our journey, even amidst sorrow. It’s a reminder that while loss is part of life, so is the capacity for joy. This Christmas, let’s embrace the journey, celebrate the memories, and find joy in every moment we share.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of joy that sustains us through our journeys. Help us to embrace the memories of our loved ones while finding new reasons to celebrate life. May Your love shine brightly in our hearts, reminding us of the hope and grace You provide. Amen.
