I am hesitant to even share this, but it was Jimmy’s last note to me. Written on notebook paper and left on my desk, I didn’t find it until almost a week after his passing. And even though I knew it was a post for the blog It felt like a direct message from him to me, an answer to my aching question to God: “Why should I celebrate the holidays when the one I so looked forward to celebrating with is now in heaven?”
This season has been filled with bittersweet moments that feel like conversations with Jimmy, even though he is not here with me. I’ve discovered little love notes he tucked away in drawers, and I’ve received gifts that serve as vivid reminders of the joyful moments we shared and the beautiful conversations we had. Yet, despite these touches of his love, my heart swells with sadness at his absence. It’s been hard to find meaning in doing the things we used to cherish together during this season.
But then, I return to his note, and it brings me back to a place of gratitude. I am reminded of the One who gave us everything—far more than we could ever give. And so, I rise, I soldier on, and I wonder about the wondrous things Jimmy must be experiencing as he celebrates Christmas in heaven.
Even though my heart aches to see him again, I pause with gratitude and celebrate the One who brought Jimmy to heaven and who dwells in my heart—the greatest gift I have ever received.
So, I say Merry Christmas. May this note from Jimmy Ray bring you the same peace and comfort it has brought to me.
With love in Christ,
Shonta
Why Christmas
What a wonderful time of year this is as we celebrate the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ! Jesus is the greatest gift the world has ever received. Even the angels recognized this miraculous moment, as the gates of heaven burst open with praise, declaring: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14).
Christmas is a season of transformation:
- Crying turns into laughter.
- Sorrow becomes rejoicing.
- Sinners are made saints.
- Death is exchanged for life.
- Trouble gives way to peace.
- Hate is overwhelmed by love.
- Grief is filled with hope.
- Doubt is replaced with faith.
Because of Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Christ, those of us who are weary and burdened can come to Christ to find rest and peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding (Matthew 11:28-30, Philippians 4:7).
So this season, let us lift our voices in joyful praise: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” And let us pause in gratitude, knowing that the greatest gift—the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ—dwells in our hearts.
Scripture References:
- Luke 2:14
- Matthew 11:28-30
- Philippians 4:7
May your Christmas be filled with His peace, love, and joy!
Jimmy
