Twinkling lights, striped candy canes and festive garlands are displayed in every town we pass through on our BC tour.  From the restaurant where we had supper last night, we could look down into the hot springs pool, which was lit by strands of red and white lights and miniature snow-covered evergreen trees complete with decorations, as well.  The Christmas tree in the corner of the warm dining room enhanced the atmosphere while soft carols played in the background.

I almost felt like I was in a Hallmark movie, sitting across from my handsome husband as we shared an intimate meal together.  In this alpine setting, it was romantic and relaxing.  Warm, fuzzy feelings wrapped up in sentimentality carried me away!

But you and I know, Christmas isn't always full of romance and perfection.  As much as the Hallmark movie plots always end happily ever after, real life can be just the opposite.

Many struggle through the holiday season.  For those who grew up with Christmas being the season of parties, it can be filled with fear and tragedies that took place.  Money gets spent extravagantly, only to cause hardship afterwards. Some find the holidays to be lonely.  It emphasizes that loved ones who have passed away are no longer there to celebrate with.  Other have become so disillusioned with the Hallmark version when reality just never measures up!

This verse from the Bible may not seem connected with Christmas at all, but I think it fits.  "It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting for death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart."  Ecclesiastes 7:2

A party appears to be a fun, happy, carefree time!  Food, laughter, drinks and music...and I'm not saying not to celebrate at Christmas or any other occasion.  People were created with a natural desire to rejoice and celebrate! Even more, followers of the Lord Jesus Christ ought to be able to celebrate the most because we are forgiven and have the hope of eternal life in heaven!  But many times, a party can be an excuse for over-indulgence in an attempt to hide the pains of real life.

If you want reality, attend a funeral.  Go to a house where mourners are sharing memories of their departed loved one.  Go to a hospital and sit with a family as their loved one slips into the next life.  We all must face the harsh reality of death.  And a house of mourning or a funeral is where people can think with clarity about the future and where they will spend eternity.  It is where they are often open to spiritual truths and conversations.

But the good news is found in the announcement the angel gave to the shepherds on that special night:

"Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  for unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord."  Luke 2:10 & 11

A Saviour has been born!  We have a reason to truly celebrate - to party with real and lasting joy!  We have a comforter, a healer, a friend who will never leave us or forsake us.  Jesus Christ has come!

(If you are one who feels depression at this time of year and you want to skip over these calendar days of December 24-January1...I am praying for you.  Reach out to someone you trust and find hope and healing.  You are loved!)