Celebrating Christmas With Our Lost Loved Ones

The other day I switched my Pandora station to play a Country Christmas station. Scotty McCreery's Christmas in Heaven sounded through the speakers and I hung onto every word that touched my ears. It was beautiful. Sad, but beautiful. I nearly started crying as I thought of the loved ones who have gone before me. My grandfather's face was clear in my mind. I began to wonder what McCreery had sang in his song:

"Is the snow falling down on the streets of gold?
Are the mansions all covered in white?
Are you singing with angels "Silent Night"

It made me sad at first, thinking of loved ones in heaven, but then I realized they are with the King. They are worshiping Jesus. They are face to face with Our Savior. My wondering turned to curiosity instead of sorrow. While there is still an ache of grief, there is a joy in that realization. Christmas is about celebrating Jesus. Our loved ones are celebrating in Heaven and we are celebrating here on Earth until our time comes to join them. 

The holidays can be rough when there has been loss. It doesn't matter how long it has been, the ache is still there, whether in the forefront of one's mind or in the back of one's memory. I pray that during this Christmas season those who grieve find joy in even the little things. May they feel God's peace and comfort around them. I pray they remember to celebrate Jesus' birth. May they contemplate the reason for the season. I pray they remember their loved ones are singing with Jesus. May they join in singing praises to the Lord on High.

Merry Christmas and God bless you all!