Oh, come to my heart, Lord Jesus...there is room in my heart for you.

There is a Christmas song that declares “it’s the most wonderful time of the year”. For making memories, there is probably no better time of the year. Family traditions develop; special groups make sure that they gather together. Celebration is a major part of every dimension of this time of the year! Christmas parties are all over the church calendar; most people are amazed at how many places they will be going and all the things they will be doing.

All of this joy and celebration and tradition is a positive thing – until its not. Holiday time is hardest for people who have suffered loss; when a key person is no longer part of the mix. It is even harder for those whose loss happened during this time of year. Their suffering is generally quiet suffering. They let the pain remain inside and put a smile on the outside. They will stand beside you with a cup of eggnog in their hands; smile; laugh; and be thoroughly empty inside.

Sometimes we let the festivities overshadow the meaning. There was a real birth of a real baby who came on a really important mission to this world. As another, more profound song says, “You left Your throne and Your kingly crown when You came to this earth that day. But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room for Your holy nativity.” The song continues. And for the one who has that empty spot, it is important to consider the next part: “oh come to my heart, Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee.” I am not saying that the Lord Jesus will fill the place of void where a loved one was! What I am saying is this: when we suffer loss it is a blessing to be able to turn to the One who came and find him right there next to our loss. In this season of joy and celebration and tradition, my prayer is that the One who began it all has come to your heart.