A Christmas Post

Christ is born! Glorify Him, Alleluia!

"Those who sat in darkness have seen a great light." And for me this gospel truth really sunk in. I think this has probably been the darkest Christmas of my life. Wes and I are just grieving over our daughter. No, she's not all better. She might never be.

And into the dark world, where things like psychosis, and schizophrenia, and terrors exist, into this dark world of chronic disease and financial strain, of expensive doctors and medicines, of car troubles (Wes' car needs a new engine)...into THIS world God is born. He takes on our flesh and becomes Immanuel-God with us.

And there is a Kingdom, and it is not of this world. And we can be a part of it, and all this stressful, grief-inducing stuff is put into it's place. The suffering has an end and the cross hums it's glory. Yes, there is death. But because of Christ there is the resurrection. And because he was born in a manger we have hope. Not just a sentimental feeling to pull us through until the weather changes. Hope that pulls us through, rather, until that day when it will always be day and His Kingdome is fully revealed to us.

Puts things in perspective, it does.

Christ is born, glorify Him. Alleluia!

Last night during Compline prayers, somehow joy crept into my heart. A joy in Christ. It can only be the Holy Spirit, because there's no human explanation for it. I'm not so naive as to think the grief is over. Grief doesn't work that way. It is slow. I'm not so naive as to think I won't get angry or upset, or freaked out tomorrow. But I thank God for today's joy.

Christ is born, glorify Him. Alleluia!

Comments

lisa g said…
I thank God for you Alana. I thank God for the glory that is revealed in someone who knows the reality of grief, but also is able to see the truth of joy and hope in the midst of that.

Blessings to you this Christmas, my friend.
Anonymous said…
I've been praying for you. I'm so glad you have had some joy in the midst of your grief.
Ruth said…
Amen.

Praying for you.
Mimi said…
Glorify Him!

My best wishes for a wonderful Feast!
elizabeth said…
thinking of you...