It was the night before Christmas. Everywhere was dark. Save for the brightness of my screen as I tapped my keyboard. It felt as though my heart would burst.

It would be Christmas in a couple of hours. I wanted the time to stop. Let Christmas day not come, lest it go by as it’s in its tradition. Time and chance, they say, happens to all.

Now, this is the story of how God turned around my bleak Christmas into an awesome delight. While it may look like there’s nothing to be happy about, if you truly connect with the Christmas spirit, you’ll discover something truly special. Something you may not easily place a finger on.

That special thing is called joy! God’s great joy! The birth of Jesus is told with one unique thing at play- joy. A virgin, heavily pregnant, experienced the joy of giving birth to the King of all kings. Shepherds, enjoying a regular night encountered joy of the birth of the saviour.  The wise men, following the star to an unknown place, exuded joy.

Was everything perfect then? No!

Mary didn’t even get a baby shower. She had to travel while having birth pangs to a place that wouldn’t welcome her. Was the weather perfect for a baby in a manger? No! Was it perfect to have some strange men in shepherd clothing come visit when she’d rather have had family beside her? Maybe not. Was it perfect when a king threatened to kill the baby once he knew where the wise men were headed? Nope. Yet, joy is all we see when we tell the Christmas story.

Joy is what Jesus brought. And if we’re saying we’re celebrating the birth of Jesus, why then be carried away by what is or isn’t perfect in the world today? If you’re looking for perfection, look at Jesus. He’s perfect. No, circumstances don’t have to be perfect to have the best of this Christmas. Christ is enough. Christmas is just perfect if you’ve got Him in your heart and home.

It’s the 358^th day of the year and I’m absolutely grateful. There’ll be no hope for a living if Jesus never came. Gosh! I can’t even imagine what life would be.

So in celebrating Christmas, I’ve been involved in binge-watching Hallmark Christmas movies, giving out gifts, spending more time with loved ones, and spreading glad tidings! This Christmas is fast becoming the brightest I’ve ever had. Thanks to the joy of the Lord. I pray that same joy fills your hearts and homes.

PS: How are you celebrating Christmas? Any interesting Christmas traditions you’d like to share? Please share.

Love you immensely! Merry Christmas!

M.