The other day, I asked readers to share their “Reason for the Season.”

I love the comments that people posted.  I thought that since it’s Christmas time, and Holiday time for many, it was a good time to ask what people are grateful for.

My heart is warmed because every comment was about loving God, or Spirit.  Buck wrote, “with God every day is a special day.”  I share that joy, Buck, each day of my life is a surprise.  With God, I can do so much, and enjoy life, and always be assured that all is well no matter what may come (and trouble always does).

Rosalinda agrees, “God has blessed me incredibly even though the road and the way has been filled with trials and tests. Trust in Him to bring you through and you will find Him if you will seek Him.”

That can be difficult, I know.  There may be times when you are confused, worried, sick or lonely, and may not always feel God’s presence.  Ipheoma shares her loving way to God, “You may… feel like giving up when you don’t understand what His word says but my advice is that you sincerely and constantly ask Him for grace, faith and understanding and he will surely make a way for you.”

Many of you wrote of your joy and dependence on Jesus Christ, Who I also depend on.  “When no one in this world care(s) I know that Jesus does,” says Beverly.  Toni doesn’t worry, “not much money this year but my children know that Jesus is the real reason for the season so they are ok, we are happy and life is good. God bless everyone ! ~???”   Lisa adds up her many blessings, “My hope and joy this season – and each and every day, really – is to relish, embrace, and reflect to the best of my ability the love of God my Father and Jesus my Savior.”

What is SO inspiring to me are those who confided in us, telling us about some really challenging problems, and losses, yet confirming that faith is seeing them through no matter what comes.  Nancy hopes, “My depression is pretty bad right now even tho I’m doing all I can to help myself… I pray for an end to the fighting in the Middle East… And, health for our 3 children and their spouses. Guide them gently back to the Catholic church for guidance and strength. I pray for the homeless, hungry, and the mentally ill who have no one to pray for them.”  Shari said, “We lost Mom to cancer earlier this year and although she is not here to spend Christmas with us we know she (is) “home” and pain free.”   Christin, a student, wrote, “This has been a challenging holiday for me. I have had two surgeries since July 31st and November 23rd…Even though, my situation is not ideal, I still am very much in the spirit! Happy Holidays all!”   Anne is very grateful to God, too, “This holiday I am joyful to be able to see in another New Year clean and sober. Without God this would never have happened.”   An anonymous reader commented, “I have been in a struggle but God is still good. We have five children and money is tight. My hubby has been laid off and is now working for half than before. We are still fortunate to be still in our home and (haven’t) missed a beat! God is Great and his mercy is everlasting!”

Please go to the original posting, and read all the great comments.

I also asked this same question last year – take a look at a few of those comments.

I’m so thankful to you, and God, and I wish you a joyous Christmas.

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