Christmas today has become an amalgamation of travel plans, waiting in airports or taking to the road. We buy, wrap and hope the response will be positive. We cook wonderful meals; special desserts and all the preparation of the Advent Season leads to the big day. Christmas Eve is overflowing with beautiful music. Trumpets, harps, organs and voices praising the birth of our Savior touches our hearts. It’s finally here. Now what?

According to the results of a new poll by the American Psychological Association, 89% of Americans admit to being depressed during this time of the year. It can be caused by anxiety over stretching the budget beyond its limit. It can happen because of loneliness as a result of the loss of a loved one or simply missing being together with extended family. It can be triggered by memories of Christmases past or the nostalgia of childhood gatherings. It can rear its ugly head when we stress about family getting along at this time of year. Many suicides also occur during this time of the year. Remember to call 988 or 911 if you are experiencing such thoughts.

Imagine the first Christmas. An egotistical tyrant of a king had ordered all people to return to the place of their birth to be counted. A young couple from Nazareth would make the trip to Bethlehem, which was about a three-day journey over treacherous terrain. The man would walk. The nine-month pregnant woman, sat upon a donkey as it bounced over the unpaved road. When they reached their destination, they would be turned away from the inn, which was overflowing with others coming for the same reason. The woman knew it was time for the child to be born and they sought shelter in what may have been a holding place for newborn lambs. The Son of God was born that night. Angels filled the sky to announce His birth to shepherds in the field. The long-promised Messiah was placed in a feeding trough for the animals. This scene would be replayed for years after. That very first Christmas was the beginning of humanity’s second chance. 

God always keeps His promises. They aren’t always what we expect. They may be wrapped in strips of cloth, rather than fancy gift wrapping, but the value supersedes anything we can possibly afford to buy. Our gracious God has provided for our salvation, even though we don’t deserve it. That’s what Christmas is really all about. As we think about what we may have waited for during this time of anticipation, it’s more than worth the wait.

“WAITING,” By Kathy Boecher© Lyrics from “Such a Time as This.”

My God, you have placed me here for a reason.

I don’t know what it is.

I wish I knew your plan for me.

I know I should be patient,

but my mind is filled with fear.

I sit and wait and wonder why.

Why have you chosen ME to be in this place?

Am I the one who must make sure that your work is done?

I know that with you I can do anything.

I will always trust in you.

You are the God of my people.

Just help me to understand what you would have me do.

I’s hard to wait, Lord -it’s so hard to wait.

I give to you my all.

Use me as you will.

I trust in your direction for my life.

I know I am your instrument

and you will guide my way.