Christmas when things are tough

(Cross posted from http://tinyurl.com/d2yl6f9)

I've had some tough events this year ... people I know have died, others have struggled, friends have faced huge challenges, and pressures can be huge.  How do we approach Christmas when things are tough?

I found the following reflection to be helpful. 

"When difficult circumstances come, we -- let me be honest here, I -- can be fearful. So today I was helped by imagining I was one of those shepherds that night when the angel suddenly appeared. (You can review the story in Luke 2)

With my fellow shepherds, at first I feel terrified! But after hearing the angel announce the good news of the birth of the special baby, I find myself rushing into town with my friends to see the baby. As I stand there seeing that newborn, I think about the character of God: He is faithful to keep His promises, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. And I am strengthened to face life's harshness, uncertainties.

Coffee/tea thought: What does God's faithfulness to keep His promises mean to me, even in uncertainty and stress? Let me give Him glory as did the shepherds, and thank Him for loving and caring for me. (Ref: Luke 2.8-20)"

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