Christmas can be HARD!

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. " Matthew 1:21

Christmas is supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year were we reflect on the Birth of our Lord. However, for a lot of Americans Christmas isn't a time of celebration, but the opposite. Christmas turns from a time of celebrating to a time of stress, depression and anxiety.

Stress over buying gifts, financial burden of the holidays, and keeping everyone happy.

Depression can set in over loss of loved ones, or you cant get your loved ones what the want.

Anxiety of rushing around, seeing those Family members we might not agree with, or just the chaos that comes with the season.

I don't think this is how Jesus intended for us to celebrate his birth. I do think there is anything wrong with giving gifts, Santa, or the Americanized version of the Christmas we celebrate. However, we do fall victim in letting this overshadow what Jesus wanted Christmas to be.

So this year take some time from the chose that is Christmas, and slow down. Slow down and remember all that the Lord has done in your life. Bless others because you have been blessed. I know its cliche, but remember the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas!