God came into the world in the form of a helpless baby, grew up amongst us, and shared our joys and sorrows. We can’t say that God doesn’t understand what we go through in life, because Jesus experienced much of the same frustration, pain, suffering, and loss that life deals out. This has been a rough year for most people, but Jesus understands and is with us every step if we ask him to join us on our journey.
Jesus was born in a less than ideal location because there was no room for Him. We need to always make room for Jesus in our lives. One of the prayers that I pray before I receive communion is: “Jesus, I welcome you into my heart, mind, body, and soul.” My pain is less and my joy is more with Him in my life.
I love the seasons of Advent and Christmas because I get to hear people of all backgrounds belting out songs of praise to Jesus. It’s the most wonderful time of the year according to the songwriter Andy Williams. It’s wonderful because we are including Jesus in more of our festivities. If we included Jesus in more of our events during the rest of the year, we would be a lot happier.
Whether we get lots of presents for Christmas or none at all, let us all remember the reason we are celebrating. Whether we gather with family and friends or will spend Christmas alone, let us still remember Emmanuel which means God is with us. He is truly with us if we just invite and accept him in our lives.
