A short series in Advent focusing on a few significant snapshots of the Christmas story and the amazing gifts they reveal.

Christmas without a doubt is the most conflicted holiday.

For many it’s a time of joy and celebration. Watching the magic through the eyes of a child. Connecting with family and friends.

Photo Credit: Angela Marie Henrietta

Yet, for many others it’s depressing.

Those grieving the loss of a loved one who won’t be at Christmas.

Those apart from their loved ones because of circumstances beyond their control.

Those recently divorced and experiencing Christmas alone.

Add to that the non-stop activities that many of us get caught up in which in the moment are fun but can leave us exhausted. And when the buzz wears off the depression returns even worse.

And Christmas so often disappoints because it just never seems to live up to the hype.

We see this conflict in the Christmas story.

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