When Christmas Isn’t Picture Perfect

When Christmas Isn't Picture Perfect

Transforming Truth:

“So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’” —Matthew 1:22-23 (NKJV)

It’s Christmas Eve, and because we decided to simplify our traditions and stay local instead of traveling to visit family in other states, all is truly calm and bright. We’re gathered with fellow churchgoers in a downtown park, where a towering, spectacular Christmas tree attracts passersby to stop and capture an Instagram-worthy photo as we stand in the snow-covered grass clutching battery-operated candles with clumsy gloved hands and try to stay in tune with the worship band.

We’re not dressed up in our Sunday best, sitting around a lavish spread of holiday delights in an elegant dining room. Instead, we are barely recognizable under our puffy jackets, mismatched scarves, and woolly winter hats, crammed in not-so-cozy camp chairs with cocoa and coffee to keep us warm. 

And even though we’re gathered at the center of an idyllic small-town Christmas scene—trees lined with colorful lights, shops quaintly decorated, and the breathtaking view of a 45-foot-tall glowing star set atop the iconic “rock” that gave our town its name—I feel far removed from the materialism, glamour, and glitz that has dominated my social media news feed. 

I look forward to this no-frills outdoor service held by our church every year because it helps me stay focused on the reason we’re congregating tonight. And I’m grateful to worship with fellow believers under the twinkling stars, filled with “heavenly peace” because I’ve already received the greatest gift—Emmanuel, God with us.

What Does Your Christmas Look Like This Year?

Friend, maybe this year you feel like the outsider looking in, imagining all is as wonderful as it appears in those pristine photos you scroll past, and you feel like God has been silent this year. Maybe you wonder how He expects you to celebrate when you’re weighed down by situations you won’t be capturing on camera. 

I’ve been there. It’s easy to forget that pictures don’t always tell the full story. However, I invite you to take a closer look at a different scene—the manger scene. You probably have one set up somewhere in your home. These symbolic, silent figurines aren’t telling the whole story, either.

When Christmas Isn't Picture PerfectA Christmas That Seemed Far From Perfect

Imagine Mary, the mother of Jesus, disappointed to find herself in such undesirable circumstances, about to give birth. Already living under scrutiny, imagine how Joseph felt to be miles away from home, unable to secure acceptable lodging. Picture the lowly, field-worn shepherds, startled by the glorious sight of angels proclaiming the good news to them—not the church leaders—then instructing them to drop in on the newborn Messiah and tell the whole town about it.

Through an unexpected, less-than-ideal situation filled with unlikely characters, God’s plan for the redemption of humanity was perfectly accomplished. The most important gift we will ever receive—salvation from sin and reconciliation with the Father—was delivered when Jesus was born in that insignificant stable. 

Even though many who would later follow Jesus would be troubled to discover He didn’t come to set up an earthly kingdom, being in His presence did set them free—from the power of sin, not Rome. Though the resurrected Jesus did ascend to heaven, Emmanuel would continue to be with us, save us from our sins, and reconcile us with the Father. The presence of the Holy Spirit assures us of this.

A Christmas Scene to Celebrate

If you’ve been distracted or weighed down this Christmas, I hope you will lean into this truth: No matter what you are lacking, grieving, or suffering from, the true gift of Christmas—Emmanuel—will always be present. Will you embrace the gift of Emmanuel with a grateful heart? Will you take a break from the busyness and allow His presence to provide you the peace and joy your weary soul is seeking?

It’s my prayer that you will.

Nighttime Prayer:

Heavenly Father, As I prepare to celebrate Christmas this year, I don’t want to focus on what isn’t picture-perfect in my life. I don’t want comparison to steal my joy when I scroll past idyllic images on social media. And as much as I enjoy the blessings of family, fellowship, and festivities surrounding Christmas, I don’t want to lose sight of the most glorious gift I’ve already received—Your Son, Emmanuel. 

Jesus, You came into this world without fanfare, glory, or acclaim. You lived an unexpected life that baffled those who thought You would fix their immediate problems, failing to see that You provided an eternal victory instead. Help me to remember this truth when what’s in front of me is anything but ideal. Help me to keep my eyes on You, Emmanuel, as I celebrate your birth this Christmas. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Questions for Reflection:

  • Do you struggle with disappointment because your Christmas isn’t as picture-perfect or ideal as what others are sharing on social media? If so, put the phone away and spend some time in front of a manger scene, where you can reflect on the grace that provided the gift of Emmanuel.
  • Have you ever taken a social media break? If so, what did you learn about its effect on your time, your attitude, and your motivations? If you haven’t, maybe this is a good time to give it a try.
  • If you find it hard to say “no” to activities that overload your schedule during the Christmas season, can you think of ways to stay engaged with friends and family without committing to “all the things”?

Join the Conversation: Was your Christmas far from picture-perfect this year? Have you ever struggled with comparison during the holidays? Share your thoughts in the comments section. Id love to hear from you!

Related Post: Can God Work Even This for Good?

*This devotional was published on Crossmap.com as part of the Daybreak Devotions series.

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