Back in the day when I was on the radio playing music, like most stations, this time of year we played a whole lot of Christmas music. One of the most popular, and I still hear it today, is Andy Williams’ song, It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

Andy sings his heart out about kids jingle belling, good cheer, friends, parties, and caroling out in the snow. He croons of much mistletoeing and hearts glowing when loved ones are near. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Right?

Not For Everyone!

Yes, it is a wonderful time of the year for lots of people, but sadly, not for everyone. Out and about you and I will see people carrying holiday packages, but we may not know what they are carrying on the inside. And so, like all seasons, it’s a great time to to exhibit love and compassion to all.

This time of year, it’s difficult for people who have no one close to them to share the joy of the season. For some, it’s their first Christmas without their spouse; for others it may be the first holiday since their divorce; still others have no family close by.

Some find this time of year financially challenging with pressures of sending holiday cards or buying gifts they feel they just have to buy. Others wish they could fly to be with loved ones, but the airfare for them is too costly.

And then there are the children. How many little ones will only be with one parent this time of year, because last year they were with their other divorced parent? Kids many times don’t show it outwardly, but it hurts. And it’s also painful for a parent who doesn’t have their child with them too.

Love! Love! Love!

If you are in any of those categories, I send you love this holiday season! With God’s help you will get through it! On the other hand, if none of this applies to you, keep in mind it does for others; keep your heart full of love, compassion and tenderness.

Through all the myriad of decorations, parties, banquets, etc., Jesus is supposed to be the reason right? Isn’t all of this supposed to be about the savior coming into the world?

“For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

God’s motivation for sending Jesus was love! Jesus’ motivation for what he did was love. So, as you’re out amid all the hustle and bustle, hearing songs of, “much mistletoeing” and “kids jingle belling,” follow Jesus’ example by bringing as much love as you can to all those around you.

This season, why not bring others the most wonderful love of the year!

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Giving a gift of God’s Word is always a great idea – in season or out of season! There’s still time to order 7 great holiday gift ideas you might find interesting.