Have you ever felt overwhelmed during the Christmas season? There’s so much to do besides the normal list of activities. Decorate the tree and house, buy presents and wrap them, attend school plays and church productions, shop, shop, shop, cook, bake, and keep juggling all of the normal balls. I remember many Christmases when I was thinking, “Where is Christ in all of this?”
Was I alone in my thoughts? I don’t think so. It is pretty hard to find time for anything spiritual when your activity level is at a ten plus. Can you relate? Is it possible to take a few steps back from the activity and seek the Savior’s presence? It is, but we must be Very Intentional about it.
Last December, when my husband was in the hospital, Christmas came to a screeching halt for me. There were no decorations put up in my home, no Christmas cards sent, and no parties attended. It was a month of hospital visits and sleep when I could find it. Funny thing though, I may have been closer to Christ than I had been most Decembers.
I could see Him in the doctors and nurses as they ministered to my husband. I could feel His presence in the halls of the hospital as I heard families weeping about their loved ones’ conditions. He was there with the hurting and those doing their best to alleviate the suffering.
If you’re missing Christ this Christmas and can’t find Him at the malls or the office parties, take part of a day and find someplace where people are hurting. Buy a fruit or snack basket and take it to a hospital, nursing home, or homeless shelter. Take a bag of toys to a migrant shelter or soup kitchen. The people there represent those who will not be spending a “traditional Christmas.” They will either be the ones receiving care or the ones giving it. Offer your time and resources to those who need it most. There you will find the Spirit of Christ. He is there among the brokenhearted. You will be enriched and your heart will be affected by those who are suffering and the kindness of others.
“Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me. Matthew 25:40.
Valerie Cullers 
Great reminder! Hope you have a peaceful Christmas this year.
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You too…and one filled with His Presence!
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A very moving reminder of what is most important.
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Yes, there are those who are hurting everywhere. We just need to look for them!
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He is the reason for the season! We have been delivering food baskets and boy, there are some people who are living on the edge. They have all been so grateful for the assistance. It is sometimes hard to see Christ in others but when you look, He is there!
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Thank you for this Valerie. Such a beautiful reminder to be not consumed with all the things of this season but to reach out and be alongside those who need a bit of love and help.
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Thanks so much! Blessings to you this Christmas Season!
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Wonderful. Best, maybe, the only way to let Jesus find us is to escape the inner silo of our own projects and plans and be open to the opportunities God has for us to serve others who are hurting.
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Yes, Jack. Thank you so much for your input. It always adds a deeper level of understanding!
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Beautiful Valerie! I’m so glad your husband is doing better. There are so many needs if we take the time to truly look at people. A great reminder and wonderful suggestions. God bless you and your loved ones my friend. 💜🌻
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Thank you Faye! I so enjoy the pics on FB, especially with your dog in them! So cute! Have a blessed Christmas!
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I needed this today – Thank You – there are sooo many people hurting in all aspects this season – helping is what it’s all about and Happy Birthday 🎂🎊🎁🎈 if you didn’t get my message on the 4 th 🥳😍
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I did not get your message! You are most welcome. Hope you had a great birthday and yes, there are sooo many people hurting. Sometimes it is us, isn’t it?
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