[Nevertheless] Love Has Come to Find You [Christmas Eve]

All is calm and all is brightEverywhere but in your heart tonightThey're singing carols of joy and peaceBut you feel too far gone and too far out of reach

Christmas Eve isn't easy for some. Some stay home, alone, and deal with whatever they are going through on their own. Some find solace amongst amongst their faith family, in worship. Others surround themselves with family and friends. Many fake their way through the holiday.

Somewhere in your silent nightHeaven hears the song your broken heart has criedHope is here, just lift your headFor love has come to find youSomewhere in your silent night

Just a few minutes ago, I read a social media post written by a mother whose two children were murdered just three weeks ago. It was a beautiful outpouring of gratitude for those who loved Della and Sterling and supported Dani and her family in the aftermath of that horrific night. The love and grace of her words really touched my heart. 

It has been my prayer since that night that through the despair, those who love Sterling and Della would be able to feel the love that surrounds them and at least a hint of the hope and grace that God is pouring over them as they continue life's journey without those whom they deeply love. 

From heaven's height to manger lowThere is no distance the Prince of Peace won't goFrom manger low to Calvary's hillWhen your pain runs deepHis love runs deeper stillHe has always loved you, childAnd He always will

This Christmas Eve, I'll hold my children a little closer, hug them a little tighter, and give abounding thanks for their presence in my life. I will hold in my heart and my prayers those who are missing their children or other family members for any reason this holiday season. For refugees separated from loved ones; parents with estranged children; those who mourn the loss of loved ones. I will also pray for those feeling lost, alone, angry, depressed, suicidal. May they truly feel that when their pain runs deep, His love runs deeper still - that God's love will find them even in the darkest of places.

Lift your headLift your heartEmmanuel will meet you where you areHe knows your hurtHe knows your nameAnd you're the very reason that He came

On this Christmas Eve and always, may we all remember that we are the reason that He came and that He loves us just the way we are. 

 
[Somewhere In Your Silent Night by Casting Crowns]