THURSDAY OF THE THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
Have you felt any Christmas blues this year? Who has been your go-to person when you’re down? Do you have more than one? Is there something you do together that helps?
I love where Mary went during the stressful time of her pregnancy. To her cousin Elizabeth’s house. For three months she stayed (Luke 1:56). I picture long conversations at they worked side by side. Praying together. Singing together. Figuring things out.
I confess to my own feelings of off-and-on depression this year. And my go-to people and activities have involved some of those same elements.
We started at 5:30 last night, singing and talking and laughing for an hour and a half. Then a few of us went to visit Mr. and Mrs. H. They don’t get out at night anymore. After years of taking care of people with Alzheimer’s, Mr. H now has it himself. And Mrs. H is sticking by him. Of course. Fifty-nine years of marriage is some mighty sticky glue.
So we talked; we listened; we sang; we prayed.
It was all good.
With a little help from my friends, Jesus made everything alright again.
Praise him this Christmas for his second most precious gift to us—a great big family of friends.
* * *
After we got home last night, we watched The Sing-Off. The opening song? “With a Little Help from My Friends”
11 comments:
Just wanted to say that you are a sweetheart, Lisa. I thank the Lord for bringing you into my life this year.
I thank the Lord for arranging it, too, Dianna. I had to move “our” plate when I set out my nativity scene, but I’ll have it back in place after Christmas and have the daily reminder of your faithful friendship. You have been a true blessing.
I love that show!
I don't think I ever quite thought of that aspects of Mary and Elizabeth being together for three months. What a blessing they must have been to each other.
"some mighty sticky glue." Loved this. And yes if it weren't for friends where would we be. I think so many are struck with depression yet unable to admit it. So thankful for friends. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Here's praying that your depression lifts and that you'll find joy this year.
It's so true that we can't always figure out the solutions to our problems on our own. We really do need one another. I'm also amazed when I'm ministered to by someone who has problems much larger than my own. Thanks for sharing your story here.
I have always loved that part of the story -- that Mary went to be with Elizabeth for awhile. The two of them had something very special in common. It just makes sense, when you think about it!
I'm found God placing Elizabeths in my life whenever I've asked him. It takes us going over the hills... but, for the problems that can't be solved, it means there is a life we have to live. We need each other, to lift each other up.
Wonderful reflection to add to the jam today, Lisa. So glad you wrote it and shared.
My sister-in-law and I take turns at being Mary and Elizabeth. We just talked about this the other day. She one of my "go to" people.
I'm so glad you wrote this.
The power of a song is amazing to me. When I was a kid and down about something, my Mom would sing a hymn or a chorus from church that fit the situation and then try to get me to sing with her. "What A Friend We Have in Jesus" was one I sang countless times.
Love those words about the mighty sticky glue, Lisa! I'm thankful, too, for a family of friends, and I'm praying for you. Hugs!
Post a Comment