This year I went a little crazy with Christmas music. Beginning with the first advent Sunday, I put on my Christmas playlist and the familiar tunes have been blasted around the apartment for the better part of the past month. Songs about snowy landscapes, time with the family and peace all around.
The melody of this world often sounds very different, though.
Winter has been replaced by climate change, people dread the drama of relationships and Christmas is anything but peaceful. We’re stressed out, exhausted from the year and overwhelmed by the darkness surrounding us.
Emmanuel. God is with us.
In the midst of our busy lives and worried hearts, there is the soft and yet so striking message of Christmas. It won’t solve all our problems, it won’t take all our burdens away.
And yet there is something comforting, peaceful, profound to know that we don’t have to walk through the wilderness alone.
Emmanuel is with us.
His presence is closer than we often realize.
So as we gather around the Christmas tree at slightly warmer temperatures, as we bask in candle light and maybe struggle with the darkness – be with each other.
Be present at the dinner table and in challenging conversations.
Be there to share the pains and joys of life together.
Remind each other of Emmanuel this Christmas.
He is with us.
Where can you see him this week?
Writing for Five Minute Friday today, the last one for this year. Merry Christmas to you agnd your loved ones!
thisiskatha.com 
Amen!
🎅 🌟 🎄✨