The familiar Christmas song rings out, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” I see happy families engaging in holiday activities each time I drive down the street, check social media, or turn on a Christmas movie. Family and friends are decorating Christmas trees, attending ornament exchanges, volunteering at homeless shelters, reading advent devotionals, and baking cookies. Everyone appears to be having a picture perfect Christmas. But, for some of us, Christmas isn’t as wonderful as the cards and commercials make out.

With all the joyous activities happening this month, it can feel shameful to acknowledge everything is not wonderful. For many of us, family gatherings are difficult. In her article “Help! My Folks Drive Me Crazy,” Jennifer Greenberg acknowledges that as we mature, we notice our parents’ sins and quirks. She calls it the “humanization of our parents” and acknowledges that this process of growing awareness can be painful, especially during the holidays. Thankfully, Jennifer also turns our focus from today’s pain to the greater joy has been set before us. Because God came to earth as our Savior we can still fight for joy even when a Hallmark movie Christmas feels elusive. Joy to the World! The Lord has come!

With great anticipation,