For many, the lack of daylight intensifies other suffering. The weight of depression grows
heavier when light is scarce. We get stressed out when our calendars fill with extra social
obligations. We fear interactions with family members that have been difficult in the past.
What an opportunity, then, to share that the message of Christmas is specifically sent for
those in pain and suffering. It is not that “all is merry and bright.” Rather, it is the abiding
truth that God seeks to be with us, even when we are “blue".
This is how the Blue Christmas service was described to the congregation. Pastor Janell wore a shawl and there was an empty chair in the middle of the sanctuary. We learned the meaning of both during the sermon. The empty chair was a physical reminder of some lost or difficult relationship. For Pastor Janell the chair represented her daughter Emily. We learned the meaning of that shawl when Pastor Janell talked about the process of knitting the shawl.
She was knitting the shawl in her grief and found her community was willing to make it along with her. A truly meaningful shawl, obviously a powerful and potent reminder of one empty chair standing for many individuals and the supportive communities that surround us all. At one point someone made a mistake and was ready to correct it but Pastor Janell recognized the meaning that would have for her as well and now she feels the beauty of imperfect Love togther with the comfort that surrounded her as it was knit.
We all recognized the power and meaning of this service as we were experiencing it. We thanked Pastor for sharing that personal sermon and what the service captured. ❤️
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