The Meaning of it All

I recently heard a pastor say that the root of depression is not sadness, but a feeling of meaninglessness. 

Christmas time is a time when a lot of people feel joyful.  I commented to my wife yesterday that I’m having a wonderful Christmas this year, really taking in all of the things that make this season special.  Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year, which is why I try to get as much out of it as I can.

But for others Christmas the opposite; it’s a time of depression or stress or worry or hopelessness.  Maybe it’s because someone special won’t be there this year.  Maybe it’s because they can’t afford as much under the tree.  Maybe it’s because there are too many parties, concerts, events and activities to attend.  Or maybe it’s because, at the end of the day, all of the things that were supposed to make us happy and joyful this Christmas just come off feeling meaningless.

The truth is simple: if presents and parties don’t give your life meaning, then more presents and parties won’t help.  We were never meant to be defined by our stuff or our social standing or our schedules.  Regardless of what our Christmas specials tell us on TV, the real meaning of Christmas is in the baby born in Bethlehem.  It’s all about Jesus.  He is the meaning behind this holiday, and He is the only thing that can give meaning to people’s lives today.  If this year all the hustle and bustle just seems to make you depressed, seeking true meaning in Christ.