Today, on Christmas Eve, I’m sharing a part of my story I’ve rarely told. The years I ran from God after rejection and shame, and how the Christmas story met me there. Through my daughters’ simple invitation back to church and a new way of seeing Mary’s story, I began to learn how to let God love me, really love me. If you’ve ever wondered whether grace could reach you, take a breath. Emmanuel means God with us…even now.
Learning to Let God Love Me (Jill’s Story)
In this Christmas-Eve special, Jill shares a vulnerable chapter: a teenage pregnancy, losing her faith community, and decades of running from a God she assumed could never love her. Through her daughters’ invitation, and a deep dive into Mary’s story, Jill began to see the first Christmas differently…and to see her own story through Jesus’ love. She realized God had been present all along, even in a far-from-home hospital room and the messy middle of becoming a family. This episode is an invitation to release perfectionism, receive grace, and believe Emmanuel (God with us) for you. A closing benediction prays for soft hearts, discernment, and everyday generosity. If you’ve ever felt unlovable or beyond repair, let this story remind you: God never left, never stopped loving, and never will.
And as always, we start off the episode with what is bringing us joy and we know you will be so encouraged by this conversation. Listen free on Apple or Spotify, and join us on Patreon for an extended version of this episode as well as exclusive content!
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Halfway to Sunday is a weekly conversation on life and faith with your friends. We are so glad you’re here!
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SHOW NOTES
John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world…”
Matthew 1:23 — “Emmanuel… God with us.”
Luke 2:1–20 — Nativity narrative
Deuteronomy 31:6 / Hebrews 13:5 — He will never leave nor forsake
Bible Resources:
The Journaling Bible I use | Bible Highlighters | Annotating Tabs | **affiliate links
Other Episodes That May Be Helpful:
Episode #75 You’ve Heard it Said…But What Does Jesus Say? w/ Thomas West
Episode #74 Proximity Over Performance w/ Terence Lester
Episode #72 Bearing Witness to Brave Faith w/ Kurt Ver Beek
Episode #59 Loyal in His Love: How Jesus Heals What People Break w/ Tabitha Panariso
Episode #53 Faith Isn’t Fragile w/ Erin Moon
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