With Christmas on the horizon, it seems like this should be a season full of joy, laughter, and family. After all, this is the season where new life came to earth in the form of our Messiah. It is a season where we anticipate our ultimate gift of salvation. Oftentimes, we can be swept away with the joyful nature of the advent season and fail to recognize that this season can also be one of grief for many surrounding us. 

On that beautiful summer morning, I had hiked several miles with my 32 lb backpack strapped securely on my back and I was ready for a break. As I was about to walk down into a mountain valley, I paused. I was captured by the breathtaking beauty of a vast bouquet of wild flowers in bloom everywhere.

Two summers ago, my counselor looked right at me and said, “Cary, even if so and so happens, you will be okay, BECAUSE God will never leave you, nor forsake you. Do you trust your Father God? You love Him, but do you trust Him?”

When I think of Christian community, I am reminded of the immense love and care I felt from a group of adults in my church on the night my dad died.

I am a reformed shy kid. Most people who know me would be surprised by that, I think. I am a middle child, a third born. My two older sisters have the same initials, and my younger sister is 5 years younger than me – and always adorable and memorable.

I also see a deepening knowledge and understanding of who God is and His character. He is a good and faithful God who never leaves us or forsakes us. He is completely trustworthy. He hears our cries for help, collects our tears, knows us intimately, provides for us, and is with us as our constant companion. He bore the guilt and punishment for our sins, willingly and graciously. When I pause, I see the many ways He has been good and faithful to me. 

If you’ve ever been in a “winter” season spiritually, it can feel a lot like February.

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