Christmas preparation has looked a little different at my house this year. Moving boxes instead of gift boxes. Clearing out hiding places instead of storing away surprises.

We have no decorations up. I haven’t even listened to Christmas music in all the sorting and shuffling.

But I’ve been thinking about that first Christmas and what it means to me.

It’s been a tough season. There’s been a lot of deep hurt lurking in dark corners, and I mean that literally. Going through a house that has sheltered approximately 20 people over 20 years means uncovering a lot of things. While finding some of these items brings joy, others have turned over grief long thought put to rest.

It’s definitely a testament to family dynamics and how twisty they can be sometimes.

Through all the dust and bruises of moving, a bright light shone when I found out I won the 2023 First Impressions contest! This contest, sponsored by American Christian Fiction Writers, has been one I never thought I would win. The format hasn’t been my strength, and I knew it. But this current story I’m working on felt different. I took a chance and entered the contest—and I won! What a happy Christmas surprise!

I see growth in both of these scenarios. The hope of becoming a published author, the fear of sometimes-heavy family stuff. I’ve grown in my writing and I’ve grown in being able to handle difficult things in a healthy way.

The hopes and fears of all the years… are met in Thee tonight.

Jesus is the source of peace. In the joy, in the turmoil. He is Emmanuel—God with us. Whether we are hopeful or fearful, happy or sad, we can count on His presence. His presence that left Heaven and came to earth for the very purpose of restoring man’s relationship with the Father. He came for the tough seasons. He meets us here. And He cannot fail.

I truly hope your Christmas is beautiful and peaceful. But if you’re having a hard time, know that His light pierces the darkness. Jesus came for you. He is with you. Trust Him with your hopes and fears. He will carry you as He is carrying me. As He has carried the entire world. He is the miracle of Christmas.

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Image by 🌼Christel🌼 from Pixabay