Saturday, Dec 21

Scripture: Luke 2:14 (NKJV) – “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Message: What do you do when your heart’s broken in two… and it’s Christmas? What do you say when blue skies turn gray… and it’s so hard to smile?

These song lyrics were penned as I grieved the loss of a sorority sister who died tragically from a domestic assault. A few weeks earlier our nation was horrified by the senseless killings at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

My heart was heavy that December and I found it hard to be festive. Embracing the excitement and busyness of the holiday season felt trivial, given the sorrow.

Where is God when the unthinkable strikes… when tragedy and evil seem to prevail? Regarding the school shooting, I had read a newspaper headline that said: “Christmas is Cancelled.” Certainly NOT! Our need for Christmas – and its true meaning – was greater than ever!

When the world is darkest, the Light and Life of our Savior is what brings HOPE to a desperate existence. No matter how much we strive, mankind will never measure up through its own efforts. Thankfully, God made a miraculous way for our healing and redemption!

How reassuring that Jesus’ birth set in motion, not only forgiveness of sin, but also life everlasting for ALL who believe. Even those who commit evil acts are not doomed to darkness, but can be redeemed. And believers who tragically left this earth in a seemingly cruel or untimely manner are alive and well in the Heavenly Realm.

Praise God for this “Good News!” Even so, as humans with fragile hearts and emotions, we suffer grief. If you are feeling “Blue” this Christmas, take time to reflect upon all that Christ accomplished through His glorious birth and resurrection. Love came down … and Love conquers all!

My song, “It’s Still Christmas”¹ was inspired by the above events. To listen and watch the lyric video, please use the link.

Prayer: Father God, Thank You for surrounding Your beloved ones with peace, comfort and compassion. When our hearts are heavy and we question why “bad things happen,” give us reassurance that You are victorious over the wickedness of this fallen world. Truly, Christ and Christmas are worthy of celebration, always and forever! In Jesus Name. Amen.

Michele Hudson