When Your Person is Missing at Christmas

If you’re missing someone on Christmas today, this is for you.

I woke in tears this Christmas morning, not because of what’s not under the tree,
but because of who is not around the tree with me. We carry our aloneness stronger on these days that are about togetherness. And I carry sorrow for Israel today too as my children and I read about Bethlehem.

Crying out to God in the dark before others rise, I fell on my knees. A favorite Christmas hymn came to mind, encouraging me to adore Him.

So I actually did. I adored Him.

And it changed everything.

I thanked Jesus that He is full of peace for my future and that He has good plans for us.

It changed everything. That’s the power of praise.

I was equally struck by the contrast of two photos I snapped after Saint Nick arrived.

We can look at the very same scene with a totally different perspective.

That’s the power of praise. It changes everything. Give it a try today. Especially when you’re weary or want to sneak off to the restroom to collect yourself or cry.