Comfort and Joy. It's part of one of my favorite Christmas songs, but I've never really thought about what it might mean.
See, comfort isn't about being comfortable. If you look up the word, the first definition is "assistance, support." Comfort isn't about you. It's about others. Comfort is about giving to others and helping them in this time. For some, Christmas is not a time where they find a lot of comfort. This is a time of loneliness and sadness. This is a time when memories might bring to mind the loss of a loved one, a broken promise, or so much more.
What are you doing to comfort the hurting this Christmas season? As you celebrate, take a few moments to give a little joy to others. Stop by a nursing home and pass out candy canes and cards to the residents that feel forgotten. Take a newly widowed friend out for coffee or just to talk. Acknowledge that sometimes the pain is real and that these are not always happy times for everyone.
Give comfort - give assistance and support to the people in your world. Then you will truly experience the Joy of Christmas!