As the Christmas story unfolds it becomes uncomfortably clear that, if God came to be with us, despite us, we lose our excuse to remain distant from people because it's awkward, uncomfortable, or complicated. The birth and life of Jesus should make us aware of how we all need, desire, and fear the same things. The more aware we are of God’s grace and mercy, the more inclined we should be to share this grace and mercy with others. God became one of us even though he had nothing in common with any of us. Christmas is a reminder that problems, people, and expectations are not excuses to withdraw, even when it’s complicated and uncomfortable. This is the perfect season to do something for someone, despite someone, just like what your Heavenly Father did and does for you.