Last night a couple of young friends connected with me and ended up coming over to visit. If they only knew how much I “needed” it.

Perhaps it is the season and it is the enemy throwing junk down on people, but it has seemed like there is a lot going on in people’s lives. Maybe there is. Maybe we are more connected than we realize. But, when they said they were coming over, I was encouraged.

I know it is “manly” and “victorious” to act like you are okay. I am cool with that. But sometimes life just gets to you and while you can curl up in the arms of the Father, sometimes a hug, a smile and a little laughter go a long way.

Early yesterday I received word of a friend who had his child in the hospital. We talked and I began praying. A child in the hospital is painful. I have been there on two occasions. One time for a year and another for 6 months or so. I get it. He just needed someone to talk to, to care.

In the afternoon I read of the death of a long time friend’s wife. She died while working on a Christmas play for children. And then a friend who I had not heard from for days called to let me know his stepdad had passed away. Only 12 years ago his actual dad had passed.

All, these things in the “most wonderful time of the year”.

The world looks at these things and just keeps on going. But for those impacted by sickness or death, it often feels like a lonely stretch of road. These things stretch family and friendships. People often do not understand the things they have not engaged or encountered.

I do not pretend to know all the reasons for what people go through. Unlike a Christmas package, that thought process does not seem to be wrapped up neat with a tiny, little bow. I do, however know that the Father is looking down with love and compassion and that people need people. People needing people. What a wonderful Christmas thought. In the midst of the hustle and bustle the value of a smile goes a long way. The sound of a child’s laughter breaks hearts.

A friend of mine was scheduled to visit a psychic. There was a cost attached. (Isn’t there always?) I knew I had to share with him. I jokingly said I would give him a word for free. (And did.) The relationship had been headed to a place of darkness. I told him about the “train wreck” I saw. Two days later as he was scheduled to meet a psychic it all ended. I am not happy for friend as I think he is a great person. (I am happy that he gets a fresh start.) But, I recognize the loss of pain in a season where many seem or are so happy.

For many this is a painful season. One that reminds them of regret, remorse, pain and loss. For my friend who lost his second dad just weeks before Christmas (His first dad died a few weeks before Christmas as well.)his world changed as he tries to bring comfort to his mom, meanwhile working out his own piece.

I do understand. I hated Christmas prior to being a believer. My Christmas was a season of loss, pain and hurt. It was not happy, merry or joyful.

People need people. Each day I find the Lord opens the door to more and more folks, as He unlocks their misgivings and their pain, allowing for the entry of Him.

I said weeks ago, December was kicking off THE SEASON OF LOVE. I see it happening even as people are going through their stuff. In the midst of pain and problems the doors are being opened to the love of the Father. That love is being shown through His people. I love angels and flash and all of that, but let me hear a little laughter and my day changes. Let me see the embrace of a parent and a child. Those things melt my heart. And if they were able to melt my heart some 25 years ago, they can catch the heart of another.

Today, I have a full day despite not working. I know it is going to include people. I can assure you I will see a heart opened, a life changed. Why? Because it is Christmas!