“It’s the most wonderful time of the year….”

“Let your hearts be light. From now on, our troubles will be out of sight…”

“Deck the halls with boughs of holly…”

I love Christmas music, and I have a particular fondness for versions sung by people like Bing Crosby, Perry Como and Rosemary Clooney. But as much as I love these songs, they’re not always true to life. There are a lot of hurting hearts in the midst of all the glitz and bright lights of the season.

It is incredibly tough if your fa-la-la is broken when society mandates that you be upbeat and happy during the Christmas season. So many people struggle through the lead up to Christmas.

I want you to know that feeling sad or struggling during this season doesn’t mean that your faith is weak. It doesn’t mean that you are bad. It doesn’t mean that you don’t love Jesus. It simply means that you are human, and humans experience all sorts of emotions.

Jesus brings ultimate hope and joy, but in our humanity, we still struggle sometimes. If you’re on the struggle bus this year, know that you don’t have to ride it alone. I’m here to listen as you need me and put you in touch with other resources as they’re needed.

Best of all, Jesus is coming. The Light of the World shines brightly amidst the darkness. Thanks be to God.

Blessings,

Valerie Loner