Dear ConnectUp Friends,

To those who grieve on Christmas, who have experienced the loss of a loved one, or found themselves in a harsh circumstance, perhaps disappointed, living with heartache of some kind, I want to say, “Hello!” just to you today. This greeting is for and about you.

It can be easy to feel like you are crawling along on the outskirts of Christmas, pressed outside the worldwide joy parade by a sorrowful circumstance. You are watching the holiday happen, trying hard not to be sad while the world sings, "Glory!" The festivities feel more like arrows to your heart than gifts, the sounds and visuals of the holiday a blaring reminder of what you are living without. In particular, if it is your first Christmas without a loved one, it is likely no less than a hike up Mount Everest to make it through this season emotionally. Even now, for me, years later, I still miss those who beat me Home. Christmas holds amplified emptiness when those we love are not with us in it.

I have a word for you. Hear me, beloved! You are not on the outskirts of Christmas. Do you know what everyone is gathered around? They are celebrating the coming of King Jesus, who is a man who was familiar with sorrow and well-acquainted with grief. I believe that every single twinkling light is a sign that there is hope for those who are brokenhearted. Jesus came, and courageously pursued those who were most hurting. He is still doing this very thing today, on Christmas. His eyes and heart are towards you. You are not alone. You are not outside of what "Christmas" is about. You are actually the reason for this season.

YOU are the reason He came. 
YOU. 
You grumpy, grieving, sorrowful, and beautiful person. 
Perhaps feeling very much alone. 
YOU.

"He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Christmas is a holiday about Jesus, and Jesus sees you in your grief and loves you more deeply than anyone ever could. He is near to you, nearer than your breath. It is possible to be comforted on Christmas day and benefit deeply from the good news that sits at the core of this holiday. Jesus came, and is still coming, to save, rescue, and redeem those who are hurting. I declare to you – beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, and praise for despair. Isaiah 61:1-3 belongs to you! Unwrap it. It’s all yours. You are at the center of what this day is about.

My love to the grieving this season!

Love, Katie Luse.