Christmas is just a few days away! Depending on how you feel about this holiday, you may be filled with joy, stressed out, oblivious, or dreading it. What often amazes me is how in the midst of not feeling joy, often comes our most significant opportunities for not only spiritual growth but true joy.
True joy comes from within. Nestled deep within each of us is a source of joy that is boundless and eternal – the spirit of God. We are a sacred part of all that is God, and Christmas is a chance to celebrate that part of us that is that sacred person – the Christ – we were created to be.
However, sometimes the best part of us comes from the most challenging times. In a time of despair and despondency, Charles Dickens wrote one of his best and most famous works, A Christmas Carol. Often the most significant gifts come from the biggest storms in life.
Where can we find what brings us joy from within? We might find it celebrating with family, watching a child anticipate Santa’s visit, or maybe finding someplace we can give to others rather than seeing what we can get.
The joy we feel whenever we commune with the spirit of God within us is a lasting source of strength and renewal. When we feel our connection with God we receive energy, enthusiasm, and a wonderful sense of well-being. When we turn to God for our strength in joy, we know we can do whatever is in front of us.
So this next week, as we prepare for Christmas, let us enjoy this holiday time – the sights, the sounds, and the feeling of hope, peace, and love that is part of the holiday. And as we do, we cannot help but remember that God is our source of everlasting joy.
May this week leading up to Christmas be filled with hope, peace, love, and joy, and may these four things draw to you all the happiness our hearts can hold.
Merry Christmas!
