God sets the solitary in families. Psalm 68:6
It’s almost Christmas! I love this beautiful time of the year when we can enjoy spending time with those we love. There is, however, another side to this coin. Many feel isolated and left out because they have no one to celebrate with during this season.
I got the following email a few years back from a friend.
I decided to study the deeper meaning of Psalm 68:6. The context in the prior verse is the loving care that our Heavenly Father has for orphans and widows. He definitely has a special place in His heart for the lonely. Then verse 6 talks about how He sets the lonely in families. Literally, He causes the solitary (unique ones) to remain or sit with those belonging to a home or an extended family.
There are two sides to this issue. If your loved ones are close and you have plans to get together, look around for someone who is alone. Set an extra place at the table and enlarge your circle. If you are going to be alone, speak up and let someone know that you are ‘flying solo’ this year. I am happy to say that the person who wrote this email will be a part of our boisterous Christmas Eve celebration.
Here are some additional ideas of how to bless other lonely folks during this special time.
Visit a nursing home. There are dozens of people waiting for someone to come and talk to them.
Help a single parent. Offer to read to their kids while they shop and wrap presents. Borrow their kids and take them to the dollar movie.
Feed the homeless. You will feel very rich when you get home.
Volunteer in the nursery at church or in other areas such as the local children’s hospital.
Lord, I thank You for leaving Your comfort zone to put on an earth suit. I ask that You open our eyes to see the needs of those around us. May we make room around our tables and in our hearts for those who find themselves alone this year. I pray that those who are invited will accept and enjoy themselves. It’s so fun to be a part of Your plan. Amen.
