This is our ninth Christmas since our son Jacob died. It seems odd to write that. I felt stuck in time and in grief for so long I thought I’d never get relief.

I remember reading and hearing people tell of how the holidays will get easier in time.

I’m not sure I ever believed them. Maybe you feel that way now.

But now I know by experience that it is true. So I assure you that the sting will pass but the ache remains forever.

Time alone dulls the sharp edges of those who grieve during the Christmas season.

Is that a true statement? I do not believe it is because of the following verse.

“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:17-18

God hears, God delivers, God is near and God saves.

Yes, time dulls the pain but the God of all comfort provides what we need when the pain is most intense. He is with us through time. So actually it is God who heals. It just takes time. His time.

Be assured in knowing that as you heal and are comforted in your grief that God provided that for you. He has an infinite amount of ways to provide that for us. A song, a prayer, a pet, a smile or a dream. It comes in so many ways.

When you receive comfort acknowledge God and give him thanks. Even if you do not believe in God that does not change the truth of my last statement. Our unbelief cannot and does not negate his existence.

He loves the world. He loves me and he loves you. That is as immutable as a sunrise.

“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” Jesus

May God bring you all comfort this Christmas.