A radio commercial recently was equating hard times during the holidays with being short on funds. Yes, that can be difficult, but this also is true: Better a dry morsel with peace and quiet, than a house full of feasting with strife.
It is strife that makes the holidays most difficult. Family divisions, long-held unforgiveness, grudges, even just different political and spiritual viewpoints... all these can add up to strife. The worst of family strife is withdrawal of a loved one, estrangement, divorce; all which leave those remaining with a debilitating ache of spirit. This also can come from the abscence of a dear one, whether through death or distance.
And so we read the Psalms and seek comfort during this time.
Then He'll lead the way before you,
Mountains laying low;
Making deset places blossom,
Sweet'ning Marah's flow.
May your bitterness be sweetened through the kindness of God's love. Know that you are not alone in your grief.
