Tis the season

[RevSmoke]

You all know I am a pastor, so if you don't want to read any further, you won't offend. But, there is something here for everyone who reads to the end.

As a pastor, I've seen the horror that the "holiday season" brings. I have more individuals and couples come in to talk to me between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day (basically 1 month and 1 week) than any other **3 month** period. Statistically, there are more suicides in that same time frame than any other 6 months combined.

The reason? They are multiple reasons why, but one of the biggies is the preoccupation with 'things.' I may be 'what' to get for Christmas or whether I'll/we'll be able to 'afford' what I want to buy for... Sometimes it is the loss of a dear loved one, and Christmas becomes very hard without that individual there to celebrate with them.

I know of one balm for all these woes, it is the gift of love that God gave of His only begotten Son. His love is the reason for Christmas. Without His birth, there would be no time off from school - no vacation for teachers - no extended days off for other employees.

As much as I'd encourage you to spend time and celebrate our Savior's birth, even if you cannot do that with me, I encourage you to keep your eyes open. There are people hurting all around you, if we are but open to see them. A kind word here. A hug there. An invitation to join you in your celebration. A invitation to let them bend your ear for a few hours.

Let us all make a difference in those around us this year.

Peace of the Lord be with you.