Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. — Ps. 27:14.
Standing near the cold window, the living room dark except for the Christmas tree lights, I watched the car drive away with my three children inside. This was the first of many Christmases to come that I spent alone. Christmases for my children stretched between a father and mother they loved, now divorced.
All the bright lights and Christmas decorations could not penetrate the dark cloak of loneliness and hopelessness I felt at that moment. I sank to my knees and asked that this cup be taken from me. I had not the strength to endure a Christmas alone without my family.
Through the tears, I turned to the scriptures, reading by the light of the Christmas tree. For me, it was a scripture made for Christmas. A promise of hope, of burdens made light. Is this not exactly what the birth of the Savior represents?
Loneliness and hopelessness engulf many during the Christmas season. This scripture is not a promise of removing the hardship, but a request from the Lord to "be of good courage," and His blessing of strength will follow. For me, that night, courage came and so did strength. What a beautiful gift from a loving Heavenly Father. — Jeanie Hansen, Salt Lake City, Utah.
"Living by the Scriptures" is another in a series of Church News reader-response articles. Was there a time when a particular scripture touched you, when it offered comfort, guidance and much-needed support? If so, please describe your experience in 250-300 words, giving the scripture reference and telling how it affected you. Send your submission to Church News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110. Fax No. (801) 237-2524. Internet e-mail: (churchnews@desnews.com)
