A Blue Christmas Service
Christmas time can be a very lonely, depressing, "blue" time for those grieving the loss of loved ones or other losses or for those who are all alone when others are partying and gathering with family members. An evening dedicated for those who find it difficult to "celebrate" at this time.
The constant refrain on radio and television, in shopping malls and churches, about the happiness of the Christmas Season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had. The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation, the gut wrenching loss of a child, the loneliness of no longer having a beloved spouse to share each day, the loss of a dear family pet - all these can contribute to a feeling of being alone, of 'feeling blue' in the midst of the society around us which seems bent on 'being happy' and 'celebrating'. There are years when we hurt at Christmas time and can't get into the festivities others seem to be able to do.
It's at such times that we need to make the space and take the time to acknowledge our sadness and concern. We need to know that we are not alone. For these reasons, “Blue Box” invites you at 6:45 pm Wednesday December 21st to come and join in sharing and hearing prayers, Scripture and music that acknowledge that God's presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle - and that God's Word comes to shine light into our darkness.
Quiet meditative music will accompany our fellowship, light refreshments and sharing time. A time to move from feeling 'blue' to experiencing the wonder and hope of Christmas. Doors will be open to all who come so please feel free to invite others to come with you, as your support, or if you know that they too, are finding that Christmas hurts.
This time has been called the "long dark night of the soul", "the winter of our discontent" in which memories of past experiences and the pain of present experiences can become overwhelming. For some, Christmas Day is the most difficult. For others, Christmas Eve, or New Years Eve, or the beginning of another lonely New Year. We recognize that this is not a season of joy for everyone. We will invite you to reflect on the pain, the loneliness, the sadness you may feel and offer it pain to the Christ Child. We pray that you will find hope and comfort in knowing that you are not alone.
Isaiah 40: "Comfort, comfort my people" says your God. "Speak to the heart of Jerusalem and call to her that the time of service is ended ... Look up to the heavens! Who made the stars, if not the One who drills them like an army, calling each one by its own name? So mighty is God's power and strength that not one fails to answer. Israel, why then do you complain that our God does not know your troubles or care if you suffer injustice? Our God, the everlasting God, the creator of the farthest parts of the each, never grows tired or weary. No one can fathom the depths of God's understanding. God gives power to the faint and strength to the powerless. They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength."
