More than a few of us know that some of the coldest, darkest times of our lives have been spent under the lights of Christmas– surrounded by the warmth of others singing Joy to the world.
Recalling those moments, we might wonder why the lights, sounds, and good will of the happiest time of the year didn’t melt the ice that felt like ours’ alone. Why couldn’t the music of the King of kings– with us, to share our weakness, and eventually to bear our guilt—win the day—or at the very least, the moment?
Because those memories, and questions, have a way of resurfacing at this time of the year, it may be worth talking about. Even more importantly, it may be important to remember that the journey to a feed trough we now call the manger didn’t always feel good to Mary and Joseph—even as the King of kings was being “formed” in her.
If these thoughts are touching the dark, cold, side of the holiday season in you… you are not alone… in more ways than one.
Mary wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn (Luke 2:7).