Is the path secure or scary?

The predictable gravel path winds up the hill, past the bee hutch, and through the wooden gate. Safe and secure, each step taken with confidence and ease while the sunlight illuminates the way. 

Only a few hours later, the same path cloaked in darkness evokes unspoken fear and poorly hidden doubt. The gravel and the gate up ahead disappear. Underneath the night sky, the heart quivers, birthing character and courage with each unpredictable step.

Sometimes the holidays carry the same dichotomy. We tackle familiar tasks and traditions with ease and confidence as we sing “Joy to the World” and dance cheerfully from one festive event to another. On the other hand, these same traditions, blanketed by grief, busyness, and anxiety, feel burdensome and breed resentment under the weight of past joys. A favorite ornament uncovers an unexpected layer of grief left by the absence of one once loved. The worldly pressure to do it all stirs up anxiety and steals the joy of memories meant to be made. As we uncover the brokenness of our hearts, the Light of Christmas fades and feels beyond reach. 

But when we lay our brokenness before the gift in the manger, His Light shines through the shadows in our souls and promises new growth and peace.

The path forward never changes, even on the darkest of days. But as God’s children, we can ALWAYS trust the Way to the Light through the Son, Jesus. We don’t have to see the path ahead to know that His Light remains. Traditions and tasks don’t ensure a joy-filled tomorrow, but God’s Spirit that lives within us gives us the confidence to step into the darkness with the Light of His Hope.

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.

Ephesians 5:8

Take Time to Pause

• Is this Christmas season full of joy and peace, or stress & fear?
• What area of brokenness do you need to surrender to Jesus this Christmas? 
• Do you fully trust Him and His promises to guide you, even when the path is unclear?