Can you believe it is Christmas Eve? I was just talking to my mom and we were saying how Christmas feels different this year. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia lingering in the air, reminding us of past Christmases filled with laughter and the warmth of family gatherings.
Growing up, we would go to my grandmother’s house every Christmas and stay for a few days, reveling in the warmth of her cozy kitchen filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies. Since we lived three hours away from family, it was a highly anticipated time for me and my brothers, as we eagerly looked forward to the joyful reunion that awaited us. The excitement would build as we journeyed down the highway, and upon arrival, we would be enveloped in cheerful hugs and loving smiles. Cousins and relatives’ laughter filled the air, mingling with the sounds of grandma cooking in her kitchen, creating a magical atmosphere that made every moment feel like a cherished memory in the making.
As I grew older and got married, I created special moments and new traditions with my own children hoping that their Christmases would be as magical as mine were. Since we usually lived far from home because of ministry, we often found ourselves traveling the highways to be embraced by the welcoming hugs and love from my own parents.
As I sit here writing and reflecting, I realize this is my first Christmas as an Empty Nester, where the house feels a little quieter and the traditions are shifting. The absence of the usual hustle and bustle leaves me reflecting on the memories we’ve created over the years. If one is not careful, you can get caught up in the longing for yesterday and not embrace the newness of this season.
One Thing Remains
Although traditions and our seasons may change, there is one thing that remains constant: the enduring love of God for for each and every one of us. God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to us offering us hope, redemption, and a path to eternal life. John 3:16 says:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This profound message reminds us that no matter the circumstances we face, the love of God stands unwavering, providing comfort and strength to those who seek it.
His love for us is so deep and amazing. He gave us the most beautiful gift of His Son, a sacrifice so profound that it forever changed the course of humanity, to save us from our sins and give us a future hope filled with promise. God’s love is a steadfast and unwavering love that offers us grace in our darkest moments and illuminates our path. It invites us into a relationship with Him that nurtures our souls and strengthens our faith, assuring us that no matter our struggles or failures, we are cherished and valued beyond measure.
The True Meaning of Christmas
Do you remember the Charlie Brown Christmas special? Charlie Brown was troubled and kept asking, “is this all there is to Christmas?” You could hear his disappointment and feeling that Christmas isn’t as meaningful as he thought it should be.
And then Linus speaks up and quotes Luke 2:8-14
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Conclusion
This is what Christmas is all about. It’s not about our traditions or the presents under the tree but about His presence in our lives.
As you go about your traditions today and tomorrow, take time to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Reflect on the many times God has demonstrated His unwavering love for you and has blessed you abundantly this year, whether through small moments of kindness or significant life-changing events. For His love never grows cold, it doesn’t grow weary, and it lasts forever, offering us strength in times of need and comfort during difficult moments.
I pray you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Find Joy In Today 
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