“Finding the Light in the Shadows.” Part I

By Anna Ram Psychologist, Coach~ Pastoral Integrative Counseling

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” Romans 15:13

This season is “the most wonderful time of the year” as it is filled with jolly celebrations and traditions for an extended time, giving us a chance to rest, and create cherished moments with family and friends that last for another year, if all goes well in our social dynamics. This Nativity spirit in the celebration gives us the opportunity to see beyond ourselves and become more  patient, empathic, compassionate, and kind toward others as  we embrace  the experience.

Generations have grown up enchanted by Christmas characters like Santa Claus, who embodies the idea of knowing whether we’ve been “good or bad.” While this fantasy is fun for children and adults, is just a fantasy. When we move beyond it to recognize the true and lasting spirit, we meet the Holy Spirit. Inviting the Holy Spirit into our hearts produces meaningful fruits such as love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23, which brings the real joy and happiness we pursuit in life.

In the real story of Jesus’ birth there is a profound joy of the shepherds on that starry night when angels appeared in dazzling splendor.  The lead angel reassured them, saying: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10-11). This miraculous experience, though shocking because is a supernatural experience, reminds us that God often reaches out during our darkest moments to change everything.

Fear is the first emotional expression when we encounter God. That is why the word “fear” is on the bible so many times, because we fear the unknown. But once God gets our attention, we can hear him saying when is necessary: “Do not fear, I am here with you,” assuring us of his presence and blessings.

The Light that Shines Brightly Brings Gifts

The birth of Jesus was a Gift to all humanity. Although he was born on this earth from the virgin Mary, he didn’t come alone. He brought with him to his birth event lots of witnesses from heaven. His heavenly Father sent an angelical host with orders to announce his birth as it is supposed to be done with “royal heirs.” Imaging this scene for a moment. For a good start, I can think on angels “bodyguards” the protector angels against evil, the messenger angel, the angelical chorus. Did you know that all angels are God’s servants to execute his orders and to worship him? That is why we do not worship angels.

So, a great event is taking place on earth and in heaven as the angels proclaim: “Glory in the highest.” Jesus was born in a humble place, and this by God’s design. This event was set for that time and place to fulfill the prophesies about God’s new order, (the Messiah is here, a new covenant is here, the restoration of Israel is near, the inclusion of all nations is here, the King of kings and Lord of lords is here bringing the kingdom of God, and much more.)

This event was also full in symbolism.  Notably the angelic visitation, was directed not to the religious elite or kings of the nations, but to shepherds and wise men from the East.  This choice was very strategic.

The shepherds represent humility and care, while the wise men signify recognition from distant lands. As John 1:11-12 states, “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

Shepherds Humility and Care

In ancient Israel, shepherds were essential to the social economic landscape, caring for sheep and goats that provided wool, meat, and milk.  Also, the breeding of many sheep used for sacrifices for expiatory purposes. Despite their importance is probably that they were often overlooked by society. Notably, figures like David and Moses started as shepherds before rising to leadership roles. A great lesson for all of us who are in care professions, leadership, or pastoral roles.

Shepherds were pivotal in one extreme of the lower class: the poor who took part of that glorious visitation and were led to follow the bright star to worship and to bring the news to town.

The Wise Men: Recognition from Distant Lands

The arrival of the Wise Men, skilled in astronomy and likely from Persia (modern-day Iran), contrasts sharply with the shepherds in the Nativity story. They came to Jerusalem after Jesus’ birth, seeking the “king of the Jews,” as prophesied in Matthew 2:1-2. This fulfilled a prophecy from Numbers 24:17 that indicated the global recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. These Wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each symbolizing royalty, divinity, and foreshadowing Christ suffering.

Some theologians link this event  with the prophesy in Isaiah 60:6, suggesting it prophesied that nations will gather to honor the Messiah. Other theologians point Isaiah 60:6 fulfillment as  nations bring wealth for Israel’s restoration from regions corresponding to modern northwestern Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and southern Sinai. But the bottom line of this theological postures is that all of this would happen because the Messiah had come and with him the inclusion of all social classes, ethnic groups and nations. The prophesy in Isaiah 56:7 and in Mark 11:17 are fulfilled here. Jesus himself said: “My House is a house of prayer for all the nations.”

A Joyful Proclamation

In Luke 2, The angels proclaimed: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”  Luke 2:14.  This Threefold proclamation was declaring to the “celestial and earthly powers” the following:

• Glory to God in the Highest: This acknowledges God’s supreme authority and holiness, emphasizing the importance of recognizing His divine presence among us to adore Him.
• On Earth Peace: This phrase highlights God’s effort to reconcile humanity with Himself, identifying Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace. It offers hope for harmony among people, emphasizing that true peace from above can fill our hearts and communities, unlike temporary earthly peace treaties that cannot be sustained for long.
• Goodwill Toward Men: God’s gift of His Son reflects His favor, grace, and love for humanity. This act encourages us to extend kindness and compassion to one another, illustrating how divine goodwill flows from God to us and then to others.

Finding the Light in the Shadows.” Part II

“The only legacy I wish to leave is my guiding light for future generations and others to follow.”

Psychology and Spirituality: Understanding Our Emotions During This Season

If you are sick or experiencing sadness during the holidays, let’s take a moment to reflect on our emotions. Sometimes it’s essential to go back to the roots of our feelings. Let’s ask our inner being:

• Why am I feeling upset, fearful, angry, sad, discouraged, disgusted, stressed, or overwhelmed?
• Why am I having unpleasant physical sensations?
• Why do the images or memories I see capture my attention?
• What beliefs do these experiences leave me with about myself?
• What is my conviction about myself?
• Instead of pushing these feelings aside, can we listen to our bodies and explore what emotions are underneath?

You Are Not Alone

Feeling sad during the holidays is common and doesn’t necessarily indicate depression. Many experience “blues” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can cause fatigue, irritability, and sadness during winter. Recognizing these feelings is the first step to healing, and it’s important to realize you’re not alone. Allowing ourselves to feel sadness, including crying, can be cathartic and help alleviate emotional burdens or process grief from losses or unmet expectations.

If we understand our defensive mechanisms and acknowledge deeper emotions, we can address past traumas and even dysfunctions, knowing that while we can’t change the past, we can change how we feel about it.  Even when “life can only be understood backwards; we must live it forwards.” Emerson.

If we see statistics in our own countries we will be surprised. According to the American Hospital Association, nearly 48 million Americans struggle with depression. However, sadness and mental health challenges are part of our humanity and do not define a person. Stigmatization does that.

Recognizing our emotions allows us to process them effectively. This goes for men and women: Guilt, shame, and anxiety can inhibit emotional expression, so it’s important not to suppress feelings. When facing anxiety about the future, we must remind ourselves that “this too shall pass.”  This is extremely helpful. We have the power to take steps toward healing, and support is always available.  Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted individuals or professional counselors.

A Message of Comfort and Hope

If you’re feeling brokenhearted or isolated, take heart in the assurance of Psalm 34:18: “God is close to the brokenhearted.” You hold immeasurable value. Not just to God but to all who care about you. You would be surprised to learn how much those with whom you feel upset at the moment care for you. “The love that you withhold is the pain that you carry.” Emerson.

Receive the Gift of Christmas

Embracing Celebration and Positivity

Despite life’s overwhelming moments, especially during the holidays, it’s important to embrace a spirit of celebration. Brightening your home and life through activities like singing, dancing, and enjoying nature invites joy and peace, even amidst struggles. Engaging in cheerful activities and spending time with uplifting people can rekindle hope. Even a brief positive interaction with a stranger can significantly improve our mood and emotions.

If that does not work for you…buy yourself a Ferrari…just kidding. Buy yourself a gift and tell your “you” how much you love you. Be compassionate to yourself, take care of yourself selfishly if is necessary so you can take care of others later. Doing this will boost your self-esteem and value because you are capable of amazing things.

How Can We Expedite Change In Our Feelings or Emotions?

The beatitude, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” Matthew 5:4, reminds us that those who are sad will receive comfort from God. Confessing to God and seeking His forgiveness can alleviate our burdens. Through sincere confessions, we uncover the gift of grace for ourselves and extend it to those we need to forgive or ask forgiveness from, recognizing that no one is perfect.

Imitate Resilience From The Heroes Of Faith

Even the great heroes of faith, men and women who faced despair, found their way back to hope.

• David cried out in his anguish, asking, “Why are you downcast, O my soul?” (Psalm 42:11). Through his connection with God, he found strength and renewed hope.
• Elijah, feeling overwhelmed, wished for death (1 Kings 19:4), but God reminded him of his purpose and strength, leading him to rise again as one of the greatest prophets.
• Similarly, Apostle Paul recognized that God’s grace shone brightest in his weaknesses, stating, “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9). He embraced vulnerability as a source of strength, avoiding guilt from his past as a persecutor of Christians. Paul paid a high price to spread the gospel beyond Jerusalem, starting in Syria, the Levant, and Europe, reaching diverse nations.

Accepting The Invitation To Light

Let’s receive Jesus in our hearts asking to be fill with His light.

“Dear God. Thank you for sending me the Gift in Jesus. This Christmas, I believe you can turn around my life and set my feet in the right direction as your Word is a lamp that lights my path. I embrace you today in highest adoration above all my struggles and troubles. Give me your Holy Spirit so I can be fruitful. Amen.”

MERRY CHRISTMAS!