I’ve been struggling recently with the holiday season upon us.  And for a change, I’ve been unable to articulate how I feel with writing.

This morning, I stumbled upon a Facebook post from my friend and fellow scribe, Jessica Patch (http://www.jessicarpatch.com).

Her words say what has been in my heart:

Over the past few weeks, there’s been much loss. My heart grieves for friends’ loved ones who have gone on to be with Jesus. I read this scripture in the Message translation today.

“Life, lovely while it lasts, is soon over. Life as we know it, precious and beautiful, ends. The body is put back in the same ground it came from. The spirit returns to God, who first breathed it.” Ecclesiastes 12:6-7

I absolutely love and am filled with peace with that last sentence. We return to the One who first breathed life into us. As the holidays approach, many of us feel the loss of those we’ve loved. Praying you’ll experience perfect peace and smile at the fond memories of the lovely lives that have gone on to heaven.

So, I continue to pray for peace. I’m determined to revel in the joy of the holidays. Like last night as my husband and I decorated our house and our Christmas tree…singing along to the Christmas songs playing and just enjoying our time together. Something so simple was such a blessing and brought happiness to my heart. 

I think my focus needs to be on the little things, the simpler things, time with family and friends. The hustle and bustle of this time of year needs to be put aside. Focus on the people we love…for the twist and turns of life can change things in a heartbeat.

While it can be difficult, I only know to keep pushing forward — praying for peace and continued trust in God’s sovereign plan.