By Nancy Virden (c)2025

Once upon a time, in my lifetime, anyway, people were cheerier during the Christmas season. Some still are. No one fought over whose holiday it was, what to say in greeting, or who got to the best toy in the store first. Cordial courtesy was the way of shoppers and shopkeepers alike. Even bad people (thieves, those who take advantage of others) took a short break around Christmas Day.

As today’s society seems more rude, callous, and divided, believers can celebrate despite difficulties. Christmas has historically been a Christian celebration, if one does not get too caught up in dates. Regardless of pagan influences and commercialization, it is, ultimately, a day when followers of Jesus are grateful for His first coming. In many church circles, carols memorializing Jesus’ life on earth swirl with harmonies and goodwill.

My favorite has always been Joy to the World. Its message commemorates the comings of Jesus, both the first and His promised second. He left heaven, where he was equal to God, and allowed himself to be a little helpless baby. First coming. Soon, he will return to take leadership over the entire Earth. That is when the world will know peace. Second coming.

Yes, these are reasons to celebrate, to hope, to face yet another day. Whether depressed, anxious, or challenged by another serious mental health disorder, we can all hang onto the reality that this is not the only life we will live. Not everything has to be solved now. We can let go of trying to control outcomes and other people because God is good and has our best interests at heart. One day, if we have confessed our sins and followed Jesus, we will experience the best future one can enjoy.

Joy to the World!

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Psalm 98:4-6

Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
    break out in praise and sing for joy!
Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp,
    with the harp and melodious song,
with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn.
    Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King!

If you are feeling suicidal or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S., call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 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. This website is not intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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