The perfect gift? These shortened days that stack up with food and friends and family ... these holy-days set apart for "celebration" so often stir up pain and unrest.
Why is THIS the season for misunderstandings, loneliness, frustrations, heart-breaking memories, happy memories drearied by missing loved ones, or the angst of coordinating plans with people in our past who require perpetual forgiveness?
It is not all twinkle bells and jingle swells ... sometimes it is cry yourself to sleep on a cold December eve. No amount of intentionality or prayerful perspective can fully shield us, because life is hard and unpredictable.
The solution is not the false peace of isolation, and it's not the pacification offered in the numbing noise of multi-media.
The answer is Jesus. He came to reveal the Truth and show us the Way that is far better.
Like being brave and humble and kind as we offer honesty.
Like being selfless and encouraging as we offer help.
And being patient as we receive each person [who is potentially privately hurting] right where they are today. Chances are: they are doing the best they can.
His life given for ours makes it possible for us to change the world. "Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."
Follow Jesus as your love and presence offer the perfect gift - a steady step toward peace on earth.
