I've been so wrapped up in all the joy of the weddings this month, the joy of seeing 20 new Deacons ordained, the joy of visiting with beautiful #1 grandson, the joy of Advent and the joy of anticipating Christmas. I've watched many a friend post of their joy on facebook and twitter. The end of Advent and the Christmas season which really begins tomorrow is certainly a time of great joy! After all, not only is this a time of family, friends, gifts and great food, it is most excellently a time to focus on the reason for the season; remembering the birth of Jesus as a babe in the manger, and reflecting on Jesus in our own lives. It seems to me that we too must remember, in all Christian charity, that Christmas time can be a challenge for some among us. It is a tough time for those who are experiencing real tangible pain. This has been driven home to all of us in recent days as the tragic events of Newtown Connecticut are all too real and fresh. I read last night that just yesterday the final funerals were held for the 26 killed inside the Sandy Hook school. All those families are truly in a place where joy and peace and Christmas festivities must be on hold. Even for those who have great faith among these surviving families these days must be tough. For all the grieving families from Newtown, we stand in solidarity with you. We pray for you and with you. Many of us are remembering your precious loved ones in the good deeds and everyday actions we will be carrying out in the days and weeks ahead. Please know that you are not alone.
Just this past week I met someone who told me their father is hospitalized this Christmas and things do not look good. Christmas for their family will be spent around a hospital bed. I've learned of another friend who too is in a hospice situation this Christmas. My own family has members with serious health concerns. Others I know are struggling with job loss and dificulties with finding a good job. Many will be facing their first Christmas without a loved one who was at the Christmas table last year. Others in our families may find themselves deployed protecting our country, some in dangerous situations, and others may be seperated from loved ones because of a job, including many first responders. Again, to all who are struggling with joy if these situations are yours are seem so familiar to you; we stand in solidarity with you.
Our prayers will still be for your joy and peace, but also that you feel God's presence, in part, because we DO stand in solidarty with you! Please always remember that many more care for you than you possibly can know and that, despite your loss or pain, God truly blesses and loves you.
And we DO stand with you!
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