For most, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year”; for others, it’s the most challenging time of the year. 

It’s December 10th, and I thought we would have some lights on our house and stockings hung, but neither of those things happened. I don’t even have the energy to do it.

However, I found the energy to decorate what we call “Archer’s Cove.” Full transparency, this is where earthly Archer lives, except when we go to family events, he comes with us. We keep some of his absolute favorite toys, and some other items hold deep memories here. Archer LOVED lights, and I couldn’t imagine Archer’s Cove looking more perfect. 

My Pastor (and cousin) preached a message that was probably meant just for me a few weeks back. He talked about the Survivor’s Guide to the Holidays. He gave excellent tips for this year, but the one that hit deep was…

Leave room for lament. A lament is a prayer expressing sorrow, pain, or confusion. In the Bible, there are verses showing people’s lament. 

It really hit me that lamenting isn’t when someone turns their back on God, but turning their face to Him. All this time, I had felt that whenever I was questioning ‘why’ or feeling that this life was ‘unfair,’ I thought God was upset with me. I thought I was wrong for asking and not understanding why I am going through this battle.

Through my lament, I have actually come to trust God more. I depend on his daily to give me strength for each day. I turn to him for peace and joy that I cannot find anywhere else. I haven’t turned away but toward God.

Because of my sorrow and pain, Christmas decorations haven’t happened. I’m amazed we got Christmas cards, presents, and the few decorations done that we did. 

I don’t know what you are going through this holiday season, and maybe this is the most wonderful time of the year, or perhaps you are finding it as difficult as I am. I want to encourage you that it’s okay to feel sorrow, pain, and confusion. Just remember to turn towards God and not away.