There’s no denying, Christmas will be very different for us this year. Not only are things unsettled and uncertain with our motorhome, which is still “being repaired” in Maryland, but for the first time I remember, I didn’t even bother to decorate. With the majority of our Christmas decorations packed away somewhere in Jason’s parents’ basement and the need to clean up and pack up over the next few weeks, it just didn’t make sense to decorate. So, I hung up a couple of stockings and the few Christmas cards we received and called it done. No lights. No tree. No garland or wreaths.  

I wish I could say that’s all that’s changed, but Christmas with the family will be different too because of schedules and other conflicts. Traditions will need to be set aside this year to make way for the “new normal” or, at least, this year’s version of normal. Even our church Christmas program will take place the week after Christmas instead of the week before as usual.

After three years of traveling the country and having my world turned upside down, I was looking forward to coming home and experiencing a typical Christmas. But, everywhere I turn, things are different, and to be honest, it doesn’t even really feel like Christmas to me in a lot of ways.

Perhaps that’s why I’ve been consumed with the idea of God’s presence lately. Just last night, I shared with my church ladies about the name Emmanuel, God With Us. In my devotional time and Bible reading, I’ve been reminded time and again that God will never leave us or forsake us. It’s as if God is reminding me to focus on Him and His presence rather than all the things around me that are different. While so many things have changed, He never will. And in that, I find hope, peace, and joy.

Christmas is a time of celebration, a time to commemorate the birth of our Savior. But for many, this season can be lonely and discouraging. And for others, things can seem a bit off. But no matter where we are or how we feel, God’s promise remains the same—He is with us. Not just near us. Not just somewhere in the vicinity. No! He is with us. Right here. Right now. And forever. Not only will He be present for Christmas, but He’ll be present the whole year through. Leading us in the paths we should go. Strengthening us for the battle ahead. And loving us even though we are often so unlovable.

We don’t need a tree, lights, or wreaths for Christmas. All we really need is God’s presence. And that, my friend, is what we are promised!