Friday, November 30, 2012

Happy or heavy holidays?



For many people, the holiday season is the most joyous time of the year.  Office parties.  Family visits.  Exchanging gifts with loved ones.  Watching "Elf" for the trillionth time.

But, for a lot of people, this isn't the case.  

The holidays can be the toughest time of the year.  Some will morn the loss of a loved one -- maybe spending the first Christmas alone.  For others, there is a lot of pressure to find ample gifts for their family.  The holidays are a mixed bag for many people, with a spike in depression and a sense of alienation from the "joyous" celebrants.


Our challenge over these weeks to come will be twofold:
 #1, Be sensitive to the fact not everyone enters the holidays with the same feelings.
 #2. To incorporate and embrace as many people as possible into our circles.
As the Apostle Paul wrote: "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." (Romans 12:15 ESV)

I hope you have a blessed holiday season, a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
 










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