I’ve got news for you: there is no “right” way to celebrate Christmas. You aren’t any less of a broken or sinful person on this day than on any other; and neither are the broken and sinful people you are going to see today. Whether you feel awkward in your group, or awkward without it, you don’t have to “put on a happy face” or “make the best of it.”

Jesus came to be with you in your broken and messed-up life, right where you are. There will be moments of joy and love and togetherness as well as times of sadness or shame or loss. Jesus signed up for all of it, because he came to be with you…

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