Christmas is considered the “most wonderful time of the year.” There’s a song that states this fact so it must be true, right? For many people Christmas is not the most wonderful time of the year. For some people Christmas is a reminder of what they have lost. For the person who has lost a job it is a reminder of what they cannot provide. If a person has lost a loved one, it is a reminder of who is not there. Since we do know that Christmas is supposed to be a joyous occasion, how can those of us who have suffered loss still celebrate the Christmas season?

Realize that Christmas is a magnifier. What I mean by that is the Christmas season allows us to see everything with a clear perspective. Those losses that seem to be so clear to us can also be accompanied by a recognition of blessings we still have to cling to. It is not that one is supposed to outshine the other. Instead, both are experienced with the hope of Jesus.

Matthew 1:23 states that “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Christmas celebrates that God is with us. Through His Son, Jesus, we do not have to celebrate any season of life alone. As you celebrate this season make sure you magnify His presence as well as all other gains and losses. You will discover that HIs presence outshines it all, and that is something to celebrate.

Today’s Challenge: Realize that the greatest present that anyone can receive this Christmas is the presence of Jesus. Make sure you are acknowledging His presence in your life so others may experience Him when they come into contact with you.