Tidings of Comfort and Joy

With “Joy to the World” and all the other songs of goodwill and glad tidings that describe this season, I would be remiss to think that we are all in a perky, celebratory mood. I know there are many that can hardly wait for this season to be in the “rear-view” mirror. I know it because I was one of you.

This is Roscoe Owen Wheat, my sweet Daddy who graduated to heaven on this day, December 17, 1964. I was 15. I remember that day clearly. He was lying on my bed when I came home from school. I said, “Daddy, are you okay?” He responded, “I’m okay, Baby. I am just resting.” I knew he wasn’t okay. He NEVER took naps on MY bed.

I ran quickly to a neighbor for help and by the time we got back home, he was gone. His last words were true. He was okay because he WAS resting in the arms of Jesus. We broke the news to my mom while she was at work. From that day on….it would be just Mom and me.

There were pj’s and house shoes already wrapped for him under the tree. I remember Mom, tearfully unwrapping them.

I also know what it is for my Sweetheart to graduate to heaven on November 16th and have the first Christmas without him in over 49 years.

My heart goes out to anyone that this is their first Christmas without their loved ones. The memories seem more vivid and the love we had for them is even greater during this tender season. Quite honestly, there is a yearning to be with them. After all, what Christmas could compare to a Christmas in heaven?

We can all have this sweet assurance; they are not celebrating with Baby Jesus. They are with our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. So rather than feeling sad or disheartened, we can celebrate that they get to be where joy, peace, love, comfort, and healing are ETERNAL. One day, we will be there – celebrating with them.

I hope you are comforted and embraced with God’s loving arms around you this Christmas. Know you are not alone. He is with you, and He is probably sending kisses down to you from your loved ones.

Whether we have family surrounding us, or we are one of our beloved service men and women who are away from their family this Christmas; whether we live in a palace or a small one room apartment, we can experience comfort and joy this Christmas.

What matters most is that we remember what matters most. The Christmas story makes our own stories make sense. It offers us comfort and joy. That is the message that all of Scripture offers. It is the message, invitation, and reality of our God – throughout time, now, and forever.

God with us. Emmanuel. Comfort and joy. Whatever your circumstances are this year, focus on the face of God and be reminded of why we celebrate Christmas. Picture the God of the universe handing you his Son, wrapped in swaddling clothes.

Hear Him say: “Do not be afraid” of anything….ever. I give you peace that passes all understanding. I give you joy. I give you comfort. I give you goodness and mercy. I give you a future and a hope. I give you my Son, Jesus.”