I called my grandmother the other day, and it struck me that whenever we express excitement for an upcoming holiday, she always says, “It’s so nice when all four of us get together. It’s always a good time.”

Not always, I’m tempted to think. Given our situation, things can get awkward fast.

But I never say that—because the deeper truth is, she’s right. Most of the time, we end up having a  time of real togetherness. Every year, I ask myself, How is that possible?

Because God. Gathers.

What are your holidays like? Are you dreading your family and/or friend get-togethers? Are you mostly excited, but there’s one or two people you can’t help but worry about? Does anxiety end up controlling your whole perspective on gathering?

There is no ultimate solution, as I’m sure you know. To reconstruct a Tolstoy quote: every family is unhappy in its own way. But I have been there, may times, and there is always hope.

God gathers.

Let’s page through the book of Isaiah to unpack this idea further.

Isaiah sometimes gets a bad reputation because of the pronouncement of judgements upon Ancient Israel and its surrounding nations for turning away from God. But the truth is: that’s only part of the story. There are many instances where God promises His people (and the surrounding nations) that he will gather them together in His Name. For example, Isaiah chapter 8 ends with the depressing imagery of people looking “toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom” because they “have no dawn” (v. 22; 20). Sometimes the thoughts of gathering sends us into dark spirals. But look at the next part:

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;

On those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy” (chapt. 9 vs. 2-3)

We usually read this passage during Christmas, but it’s by no means limited to that time!

Another significant blessing is that upon Egypt, Assyria, and Israel. In chapter 19, the LORD shows himself to Egypt (Ancient Israel’s enemy), and calls the people “Mine,” alongside Assyria (also Ancient Israel’s enemy). The chapter continues by saying that all 3 of these nations will worship the LORD together. How miraculous is that?

Now, I’m not a Bible scholar. I don’t know if this prophecy has come to pass yet, or if this will take place in a far future. But I trust that His word reflects His character. And if He is a God who delights in gathering His people and blessing them, how much more so does he delight when we gather in His Name!

So my friend, no matter your situation, no matter who you gather with, gather not for mere tradition’s sake or duty. Remember our glorious God and invite Him to in your midst. By gathering in His Name, we carry on His promises. One day we will gather with Him in a world where there is all community and no fear!

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” –John 14:27