This is the first Christmas for several years that I haven't set out in search of Christmas joy. You know that lament 'I don't feel Christmassy.' So we grit our teeth, and try our best to make the feelings come. This year is different somehow. Maybe because time does heal At least partly. But I think it's because I'm learning to live in the moment. The practice of mindfulness has helped. And in that moment it's ok. It's ok to feel happy Or sad Or tired Or grumpy Or full of beans Or overjoyed Or overwhelmed Or.... It's ok. Truly. Stop Breathe Remember. He is Immanuel God with us. Right here Right now. God with us may not change our circumstances Our disappointments or frustrations But He shares it Feels it Lives it. Immanuel The wonder of Christmas That God left the splendour of his world To get messy in ours. He knows He feels He loves Oh how He loves. Immanuel