COVID Christmas
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…
Testing Covid positive on Christmas Eve morn
Left us all alone and feeling forlorn.
For what to my wondering eyes did appear?
But that little pink line that confirmed my worst fear.
The food had been bought for my menu with care,
In hopes that my family soon would be there.
Get-togethers abandoned, plans changed.
No family gatherings, no family meals arranged,
Standing in a cold garage, our gifts were exchanged.
Our holiday joy was stolen by this thief!
No hugs, no laughter, no friendly relief.
No smiles, only masks, from chin to cheek!
Not seeing family left disbelief;
Soon our disappointment gave way to grief.
I was sad for them all. This is not what we hoped…
Not Alex nor Kristen, Not Maggie, not Dave,
Not Micah not Lisa, nor my grands – my faves!
To the front of the porch, to the very back wall,
Dash away, dash away, dash away all!
As I sat in my sadness, and my thoughts ran their course,
I remembered, and joy replaced remorse:
Christmas is not about family.
Christmas is not about gathering.
Christmas is about Jesus’ birth
In Him, is hope for peace and purpose on the earth.
When my mind wanders and goes to the infernal,
I need to remember that he is eternal!
I share this “light” poem because in the days following Christmas it became obvious that many people experienced similar Christmases this year. It was beyond disappointing to me at the time! But then I realized this was a good time for me to remember that my life here is temporary, and we should live for and long for what lies ahead! May 2022 be a year in which you grow closer to Jesus – that he would become the bread that satisfies, the water that refreshes, and the only Way for you.
“And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” Isaiah 58:11
ABOUT OUR BLOGGER
Bonnie and her husband Mitch have two daughters, three sons, four grandchildren and three grand-puppies. She was a stay-at- home mom for many years before re-entering the workforce after receiving her M.S. in Counseling and Human Relations from Villanova University. She is a licensed professional counselor at The Peacemaker Center and her own private practice, True North Counseling. Bonnie has been on the Willowdale women’s ministry teaching team since 2012. Bible studies have played a key role in her walk as a believer, and in turn, she loves to help other women find their peace with God and grow in their faith. She enjoys writing Bible study materials, reading fiction, spending time with family and doing anything in the sunshine. Bonnie loves to laugh and considers laughter as the best medicine. Psalm 126:2
JOIN OUR WINTER 2022 WOMEN’S GROUPS
That’s our commission from Jesus himself. It’s one thing to learn about discipling but another to put it into practice in community with other women. Please consider joining us for one of our women’s groups this Winter! What to expect in a women’s group:
Groups of 6 to 12 women of varying ages and stages of life
Mixed bag of Bible knowledge: some newbies who have never been in a women’s group, others long term Jesus followers, and everyone in between
Women who don’t have it all together but are committed to grow!
Confidentiality
Homework to challenge your faith, “Learn” Jesus and provide dynamic discussion
Safe place to ask questions
Soon-to-be-friends to journey alongside of you
Much needed prayer
Click below to read about our group offerings at both campuses and online. Register today as sessions begin soon!