Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
A Celebration of Grace, Joy, and the Challenge of Togetherness
Ah, Christmas—the most wonderful (and chaotic) time of the year! Between gift wrapping, cookie baking, and dodging Aunt Sadie’s political commentary at the dinner table, it’s easy to feel like we’re running on fumes rather than holiday cheer. Yet, as we pause to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, let’s anchor ourselves in the true heart of this season: grace, love, and Emmanuel—God with us.
This sacred story of Christ’s birth invites us to reflect on His humble beginnings in a manger, a reminder that simplicity often carries the deepest beauty. If God chose to send His Son into the world amidst barnyard animals and shepherds, surely He’s okay with your imperfect holiday plans (yes, even if you burned the linguini and clam sauce—which I already did at a recent party. After scraping off the burnt parts, people still loved it).
As we gather with family and friends, may we embody the qualities that Jesus Himself modeled: kindness, patience, and an open heart. Take time to listen—not just to words, but to the emotions beneath them. Breathe deeply when a comment rubs you the wrong way (pro tip: prayer is more effective than that third cup of eggnog). And above all, let’s remember that our presence, not perfection, is the greatest gift we can offer to one another.
This holiday season, I pray for us all:
To be kind when stress runs high.
To be present, even when schedules are full.
To love generously, just as Christ has loved us.
Trust God that He will scrape off your burnt parts too and perfect you in all the ways that make you more like Him!
May this Christmas fill your heart with peace, your home with laughter, and your soul with rest. And as we step into a new year, may we carry the light of this holy season into every conversation, challenge, and opportunity ahead.
Merry Christmas, dear friends!