Cheerful Christmas — Landon Wiland

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

Or at least that's what the song says about the Christmas season. Truth is, there are a lot of hurting people, and this time of year just amplifies that pain. Whether someone lost his or her job or lost a loved one, the pain of the loss stings just that much more.

They may not have any way to afford the presents that they feel are expected from them this year or are spending their first Christmas without their loved one. Perhaps that person is even you. No matter who it is, that person needs more than a little Christmas cheer.

I by no means am trying to dampen your Christmas spirit! In fact, I aim to do just the opposite. We read in Matthew that the child that would be born of a virgin would be called "Immanuel - meaning 'God with us.'"

You see, this is the time of year to bring encouragement to those who are lonely and hurting, to let those around us know, "God will be with you!"

I encourage you to stay connected to the One who is with you. Out of that connection, you can encourage those around you. You never know who may need the hope and joy that you carry with you!

This Christmas season, show everyone genuine and sincere cheer!