This is an excellent article on grieving at Christmas time. Sharon and I are grieving the loss of loved ones. We have family members and a best friend who are grieving so very hard right now. Saturday, I officiated a funeral for a Mother who lost her young son. It is so very tragic when a parent has to bury a child. We must all answer the call of Jesus and love all.
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another:
just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
By this all people will know that you are my disciples,
if you have love for one another.
–John 13:34-35
The love of Jesus conquers all things! Loving others is a command from Jesus, not a suggestion.
From Desiring God
Article by Nancy Guthrie
“Happy Thanksgiving!” “Merry Christmas!” “Happy New Year!” As the end of the year approaches, everywhere we turn someone is telling us we should be happy.
But for those who’ve recently lost someone they love, the holidays can seem more like something to survive than to enjoy. The traditions and events that can add so much joy and meaning to the season are punctuated with painful reminders of the person we love who is not here to share in it. Many have wished they could find a quiet place to hide until January 2.
While those of us who surround grieving people can’t fix the pain of loss, we can bring comfort as we come alongside those who hurt with special sensitivity to what grief is like during the holidays. Grieving people wish we all knew at least five truths, among others, at Christmas. More Here
Gary Roe: What’s realistic for you? I think of Solomon’s words from 3000 years ago, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the spring from which the rest of your life flows” (Proverbs 4:23). What would “guarding your heart” look like over the holidays?
