A Christmas Reflection from My Heart

I love Christmas! I find myself standing in awe not just of the lights, the music or the joy that fills our homes, but of the quiet miracle that changed everything.

As a Salvation Army officer, I’ve had the privilege of preaching the Christmas story countless times. Yet each year, it speaks to me in new ways. This year, I want to share what’s especially on my heart.

I remember holding my newborn granddaughter and grandson for the first time and thinking how marvellous, how fragile,
how beautiful, how wonderful and how dependent they are. And I think of Mary, holding her newborn—the Son of God—
the Creator of the universe, who chose to come not in power but in vulnerability.

That truth humbles me and reminds me that God doesn’t wait for us to be perfect or strong, but He meets us in our weakness.

This year, I sat with my family in deep grief. I have listened to others navigating brokenness and despair. The world feels heavy. If Christmas makes you feel weary, I want to remind you: Jesus didn’t come to decorate your life; He came to redeem it. He came to bring peace where there’s chaos, hope where there’s despair and light where there’s darkness.

Throughout this year, The Salvation Army has reached out to those in need—that’s the heart of Christmas, not just receiving love but reflecting it. Jesus came to serve and we honour Him when we do the same.

Scripture reminds us that when Jesus came, there was no room for Him. And sometimes that could be said about our calendars, our minds, even our mission expressions. Yet, He continues to knock—patient, present and full of grace—and when we finally open the door, everything begins to change.

This Christmas, I’m asking the Lord to make my heart a manger—simple, open and ready. I invite you to do the same.

From my heart to yours, may you encounter the living Christ this Christmas.

Commissioner Janine Donaldson
Territorial Commander