Despite what the movies, and commercials, and stories tell us, Christmastime can actually be really difficult. Some of us have lost loved ones, and the season only serves to further remind us of their absence. Some of us are struggling in some way that makes getting into the “Christmas Spirit” really difficult. Some of us have been ill at Christmastime, and the calls for joy and merriness seem out of place with the deep pain we’re experiencing. I didn’t really start celebrating Advent until coming to seminary. I grew up watching the candles on a wreath being lit each week in church leading up to Christmas Day, but it…