By Nancy Virden (c)2023

It’s really over. How was your Christmas (or any other holiday in December)?

Years ago, with parents and in-laws and children and extended family, Christmas was a hectic time. I had the energy to shop all day, to carry everything in and wrap it all, and the money to afford it. I sang in choirs while my husband directed them; annually he played “What Child is This” on his alto saxophone. Our children too took part in church plays. Christmas was mostly delightful.

Decades later, parents and in-laws are in heaven. Extended family members live far away. The children are in their thirties. My marriage ended in divorce and almost everything has changed.

My favorite part has always been the Christmas Eve service, anyway. We sing and light candles and hear once again the marvelous account of God who left heaven and lived among us. It is amazing. The presence of God is always felt. This year, I missed it thanks to fatigue. That is okay, too.

I used to complain a little in the old days when things didn’t go as well as I’d planned. Now, I find myself tempted to complain because nothing is the same. I will not complain. God has not changed, and he is still good. In the here and now, God walks with me.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Romans 5:1-11 nlt

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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