All the time and preparation leading up to Christmas can lead to a full-blown bout of depression.  Today, all the hub bub of Christmas has come to a standstill.  There are still cookies in the freezer.  Presents have been opened snowmen and Santas sitting on the front lawn?

During this time, many folks crawl into a cocoon of self-preservation.  They turn inward and focus on not being hurt by the depression of post-Christmas syndrome.  The protection of those silk threads acts as a suit of armor against feelings of loneliness, sadness, loss of a relationship or job and returning to the ho-hum of everyday life. It’s like a big letdown, but it doesn’t have to be.

When the house is empty of all the laughter and you can hear a pin drop, you know that Christmas is over, but is it? We’ve watched all the Christmas movies, enjoyed playing board games and just being together for a few hours, a few special moments, a few days. Then suddenly it comes to an abrupt end. Now the memories linger, but soon they will be gone too. As we get older, those memories become more treasured, because we know our days are numbered. It’s a quick recipe for sadness, loneliness and depression to set it.

Jesus was born more than a couple thousand years ago, but we still celebrate His birthday. There has to be something in that. One child who grew into a man and sacrificed His life for humanity, so that the clutches of sin would no longer torment us. I would say that’s reason enough to celebrate. The even bigger picture is that it didn’t end with His death. He overcame death and made it possible for us to also have the promise of eternal life with Him.

When all the decorations come down and the tree is sitting on the curb, we should still be enjoying the afterglow of that amazing birthday. Without Christmas, there is no hope for a future. Without Christmas, the love we share on that day would not exist. Without Christmas there is no peace on earth. Christmas can be a difficult time, because it stirs thoughts of the past and fears for the future, but our Savior reminds us that He’s got our lives all mapped out for us and we have nothing to fear.  We can be sure that it’s all for our good.

Instead of wrapping yourself in hopelessness, let Christmas live in your life every day of the year.  Sharing the great news with others is the best gift you’ll ever give because the return on sharing that gift will fill your heart with joy.