Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are my favorite time of the year. I enjoy seeing family and friends, and I love admiring the beautiful, festive decorations. For me, there is a warmth and comfort in seeing the glowing lights strewn about inside and outside homes.
The holidays can also be hard for some people. They can be a reminder of harder times or the loss of a loved one. We like to remind each other that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, and it is. As we say, Jesus is the reason for the season. This season, I want to take it a step further, especially for those who are hurting.
When God sent Jesus into the world as a baby, His purpose was so that Jesus would save the world through his death. I am so grateful for Jesus’ sacrifice for you and me. Because of Him, we have the opportunity to be with God forever in heaven one day.
But what about now you might ask? What about now, in the middle of my mess? When Jesus ascended to heaven after he rose again, He left us someone very special. And with that, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). We have been given a special gift. God dwells within us every day, as the Holy Spirit. That means God is ALWAYS with us in EVERY moment. He sees every tear, He hears every cry, He feels your heartache, and He knows your loneliness. His Spirit will strengthen you, protect you, and encourage you. He will provide you with people in your life that you need. He is carefully watching over you.
You are not alone. He loves you.