Christmas is a wonderful time of year. But sometimes we are not feeling it. We might have experienced a loss of a dear family member or we’re struggling with an illness. Or maybe it’s the first Christmas after a bad break-up. There are a million reasons why Christmas might be a tough season. I feel for you. And I pray for you. Just know that Christmas is not about feelings it’s about the hope that comes from our Savior being born and that makes all the difference. This hope is especially for people who are struggling. So dig in deeper and find the hope behind decorations.

“For God so[greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] ^[only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16, AMP)

The hope behind decorations

If Christmas celebrations have left you wanting, look for Jesus. Or if you’re disappointed in your gifts, or lack of them, look for Jesus. In fact, anytime the world lets you down, look for Jesus. He is the only one who can ever truly satisfy us.

Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:5, AMP)

Jesus is the only one who has an inexhaustible supply of gifts (peace, joy, faith, hope, love…) reserved for you. Yet he himself is the best gift ever. And not just on Christmas morning but year round, always and everywhere. So look for Jesus and you won’t be disappointed. The hope behind decorations is real and active. Revel in it!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises. (Romans 15:13, AMP)

 

Gracious God,
Thank you for the hope behind decorations,
thank you for sending Jesus to save us.
Pour out hope upon hope,
grace upon grace and
give us anything else we need.
Heal our hearts,
restore our spirits.
Thank you for taking care of us.
Hold us tight, Lord.
Let us feel your loving presence.
In Jesus’ precious name,
Amen

Q4U: How are you feeling this Christmas? Look for Jesus, he is your hope and he does not disappoint you. Anything I can pray for you?

Be blessed, my fellow pilgrim, as you look for Jesus for your needs. He will bless you.

Photo by Marina Khrapova on Unsplash.