We were supposed to put up the Christmas tree last weekend. Yes, we’re that family, you know the ones who love to put it up early, turn on the lights, and let the house fill with that cozy Christmas feeling before most people even start thinking about it. But this time, I just couldn’t do it.
As some of my posts have mentioned, there are days in this healing journey when I’m just not okay. This was one of those days. I felt overwhelmed and tired from everything that needed to be done, drained from the pace of life, and still hurting from a late-night conversation that had left my heart heavy. The joy I usually carry felt out of reach. I didn’t have the energy or the “sparkle” to be the cheerful one or the encourager. I felt weak and empty.
But my family saw it. They noticed. And they didn’t push.
They didn’t guilt me into doing more or remind me of the to-do list. They simply let me rest. They gave me grace. And honestly, that grace was the best gift I could have received that night.
We still have busy schedules, and the tree will go up eventually, but that evening wasn’t about the tree. It was about God showing me that it’s okay to pause. It’s okay to not be “on” all the time.
The very next day, I had a surprise at work—flowers. Again. Thank you Abigail for bringing love and honor and to allow the Lord to use you!
Twice in one year....flowers at work! And to be honest, I don’t think I’ve ever had flowers delivered to me at work before this year. These weren’t just flowers; they were a message from heaven that whispered, “I see you.” “You’re not invisible.” “You’re going to be okay.”
They were a beautiful bouquet filled with purple blooms. Later, I looked up the meaning of purple flowers—royalty, admiration, and dignity. But also spiritual depth and peace. It felt like a love note from God reminding me that I am His daughter and I am chosen, loved, and seen even when I’m weary.
Isaiah 61:3 says, “He will give a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”
That verse came alive for me in that moment. God didn’t take away my tiredness instantly, but He gave me beauty right in the middle of it.
Sometimes, God uses people—or even purple flowers—to remind us that He hasn’t forgotten us. He sees the struggle. He understands the sighs we can’t put into words. And He sends encouragement at just the right time.
If you’re feeling like I was—empty, tired, or just not yourself—pause and rest. Let His grace meet you where you are. He’s not asking for perfection; He’s inviting you to be still and let Him restore your strength.
Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Even in your weary moments, He is near.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for seeing me even when I’m struggling. Thank You for using small, beautiful reminders to show Your love. Help me to rest in Your presence when I feel empty. Thank You for being my comfort, my peace, and my strength. Teach me to receive grace and to see Your goodness even in the hard days. Amen.
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