We know that 2020 has been a challenging year and that your holidays may not feel as festive as they have in years past. We imagine that for the holy family huddled around the manger many centuries years ago “merry and bright” was not the general feeling then, either: fear, uncertainty, unquestionable love yet wondering “what’s next?” was more likely the mood. It’s only in retrospect that we can sing “Joy to the world!” and “Rejoice! Rejoice!” since we know the liberating love that was born that day.

If the songs fall flat this year and the traditions don’t live up to their usual warmth, that’s okay. Christ, Immanuel, is in our midst and with us in our grief.

The love that came into the world on that day continues to surround us, and our resilience as the beloveds of Christ is greater than we may realize.

May you and yours find the place in your body and spirit where the spark of that unconditional love resides and cherish it this blessed Christmastide.