The holiday season is a tough time for some people. When you have to face the reality of your own personal life against the idealized one portrayed in movies like "Its a wonderful life" or the "Miracle on 34th street" or a dozen other holiday films, it can get pretty depressing. So, while the picture is a bit exaggerated, the truth behind it is that many will resort to Prozac or other anti-depressants to make it through the next week or so. And don't forget Alcohol, because its the drug of choice this time of year. Instead of all this, why not do something different; read the book of Ephesians and consider that the things of true value are already awaiting you in the heavenly realms...
World English Bible: Ephesians Chapter 3
[1] For this cause I, Paul, am the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles, [2] if it is so that you have heard of the administration of that grace of God which was given me toward you; [3] how that by revelation the mystery was made known to me, as I wrote before in few words, [4] by which, when you read, you can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ; [5] which in other generations was not made known to the children of men, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit; [6] that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of his promise in Christ Jesus through the Good News, [7] of which I was made a servant, according to the gift of that grace of God which was given me according to the working of his power. [8] To me, the very least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, [9] and to make all men see what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things through Jesus Christ; [10] to the intent that now through the assembly the manifold wisdom of God might be made known to the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places, [11] according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord; [12] in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him. [13] Therefore I ask that you may not lose heart at my troubles for you, which are your glory.
[14] For this cause, I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, [15] from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, [16] that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that you may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inward man; [17] that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that you, being rooted and grounded in love, [18] may be strengthened to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, [19] and to know Christ’s love which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. [20] Now to him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, [21] to him be the glory in the assembly and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
God has given to all us Gentiles hope and love. Personally, in the form of Jesus and by association our brethren in the church. This love is not just for the next few days, but is year-round. The fancy word Ubiquitous really does apply!!! God's love never stops or changes its mind, never gets bored with you or criticizes your waistline or your hair (or the lack of it). God loves you and that is the idealized reality. So, who needs chemical help when faced with this pleasant situation? Maybe those who do not know Jesus? In a few days you may actually be sitting down for a meal with some of them, so make an effort to be nice. Who knows, they might understand God's love if they see it in you? Try showing it to them, it couldn't hurt!!!