The image of the child, Charles Dickens, is so precious. A young lad from the Victorian Period of history grew up to become a famous novelist with stories based on many of the people he interacted with throughout his young life. He was born on February 7, 1812 and died at the young age of 58. During his lifetime he was a voracious reader and writer, often using characters from his life experiences to craft his amazing works. I believe that there is a plethora of writing material obtained from our own stories. He used his short lifetime to create masterpieces of literature, including the familiar story of Scrooge and his redemption in “A Christmas Carol.”

I think the reason the story of Scrooge remains such a classic is because we can all relate to him. When three ghosts take him on his journey through time, we see a young boy growing up in the streets of London without a strong family unit. The backstory of Scrooge was a father who was bitter against him because of the death of his wife while giving birth to him. As he grew up and became obsessed with work and less involved socially, the only love he knew refused to marry him because of it. All of these negative events in his life took place during the Christmas season.

That may be the way it is for us too. We work twice as hard to make ends meet. Our focus becomes so narrow that the joy of Christmas is often lost in our own needs and desires. Many people get depressed during the holidays. In the story, Scrooge simply snuffed the ghost out with his hat, but it’s not always that easy to get rid of the things that bring us down. You may be going through some financial problems right now. You may have a marriage in need of repair. You might be overwhelmed by a disease that has sealed your last days. Whatever you are going through at this time of the year, it seems to be magnified so much by all that is happening during a season that should be filled with joy.

When Scrooge wakes on Christmas morning, his whole attitude is changed. Was it because he was fearful of dying? Was it because he realized the truth of Christmas and the wonderful news of having a second chance? We all have that same opportunity. We have been gifted with a most amazing treasure which doesn’t cost us a cent. The Savior of the world, Jesus.

Dear Savior, help all those whose hearts are heavy at this time of year. Allow them to realize that you love them with the greatest love ever known and you invite them into your arms each day. Thank you also for Christmases past. They can teach us so much about ourselves. Amen!

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18