This time of year can serve as a reminder of what was, and what’s now. For many Christmas time can be a tough time of year filled with sadness and loneliness. You may not have your kids with you this year, remembering a parent, spouse, child, or loved one who has passed away, a failed marriage or relationship, or health. After reading a story shared a couple of years ago about a mom having just given birth to her first child was given 15 months to live, I was reminded about what hope really is all about.
As was shared in that story, in his book “God Came Near” Max Lucado writes:
“The problem is not that God doesn’t give us what we hope for. It’s that we do not know the right thing for which to hope. Hope isn’t what you expect—it’s what you would never dream. It’s a wild, improbable tale with a pinch-me-I’m-dreaming ending. Hope is not a granted wish or a favor performed. It’s far greater than that. It’s a zany, unpredictable dependence on a God who loves to surprise us out of our socks!”
The Christmas of 2010 was my first as a single parent and remember that morning my kids saying how great a Christmas it was, a heartwarming day after a tough year of just getting through Tuesday. I remember the first Christmas morning I woke up without my trio, expecting them to come breaking through the bedroom door. Been grateful to be able to stay in the house they have grown up in, and I came downstairs to where years of Christmas mornings had taken place and though uneasy and empty, looking at the Christmas tree and nativity it was quiet and calm. Of course, there were flashbacks in time however I had some time to truly reflect on the day that changed everything.
Looking at the gifts waiting to be unwrapped, I thought about the other ones not there to be grateful for such as: strength gained from scars; how storms gone through have become purposes; how other single and former single dads became a ‘band of brothers’; how close I have become to both my mom and dad; how I have learned from my little brother and the pillar he has been; how simple things and time with my kids are truly wonderful things; how long car rides have become a blast; how being comfortable in my own skin again really feels; how neighbors truly care for one another; and these past two years how friends have become sole sisters and brothers through running that encouraged and inspired me to take a chance, and follow my heart. As I reflect on that, the reality of Christmas as God’s love for us becomes evident. Someone really does care, God’s gift of reality to us.
As I come in my front door everyday, and come down the stairs, this picture below is always there. It is from a while ago, however it serves to remind me whether I am going/coming from work, after saying good night, getting ready for another school day, or on Christmas morning. As I look at that picture I know that the best thing I will ever, ever do is be a dad to Will, Rachel, and Zoe. Another gift not found under the tree.
May the Lord continue to grant you time enough, energy enough, hands enough, and heart enough.
Merry Christmas!
Until next time,
Ed
the coconut husk 
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