Shine Bright

by Seneca Moraleda-Puguan

Christmas is just around the corner… again.

In the blink of an eye, another year is coming to an end.

As the winter breeze blows and snow falls, the warmth of the Christmas spirit will embrace every heart. As the sun sets early and darkness creeps in, the brightness of twinkling lights will illuminate every home.

Streets will be filled with the sound of children singing beautiful carols. Tummies will be filled with sumptuous food. Hearts will be filled with joy as gifts will be exchanged and stories will be shared.

The most wonderful time of the year is here!

But not for everyone.

Not everyone’s home will be sparkled by lights and will burst with food and laughter.

Some homes will be empty. Some homes will be silent. While some are rejoicing and exchanging gifts, others are grieving and longing for comfort and hope.

In war-torn countries, in places where there’s no freedom and hope is just a distant dream, in homes broken by pain and terror, the most wonderful season of all will be just an ordinary day or probably the saddest of all.

In this season, while I rejoice, I will take the time to remember every family torn by senseless conflicts.

In this season, while I enjoy the mouth-watering food in the gatherings I will attend, I will utter a prayer for every empty tummy longing to be satisfied.

While I gladly open the gifts that I receive, I will think of ways I can bless others who don’t have the same privilege.

At the end of the day, Christmas is not about the gifts that we receive or the food that satisfies our tummies. It’s not about the sparkling lights or the fancy decorations. It’s never about the parties we attend here and there.

In the darkest of places, the Light of the world has come.

In the midst of hopelessness, Hope has arrived.

In the brokenness, a baby has been born to restore.

In the dry and dead places, the Creator breathes life.

There is one reason for this season. There is one central message that Christmas brings. He has a name. He is the Christ. His name is Jesus.

Therefore there is hope. There is restoration and reconciliation. There is healing. There is comfort. There is peace. There is joy. There is love.

The baby that was born in a manger has brought all these and they are ours for the taking. These are the gifts He is showering.

The world is a difficult place to live in. Pain, heartbreaks and conflicts are inevitable. Sadness and brokenness are real.

Darkness covers the world. But we can take heart for the Savior of the world has come and He has overcome!

May every home around the world be lit, not with lights that will eventually run out but with the Light that eternally shines bright.

May every thirsty soul be quenched by the River of Life.

May every family be showered, not just with material gifts that will fade, but with the blessings of hope, peace and love that only come from Life and Love Himself.

May the Lord bless and keep your family. May His face shine upon you and give you peace. May His light shine brightly upon your home.

May this Christmas season be our best yet! Happy Holidays everybody!