Michelle Dyer is part of several communities in and around Crossroads, including sports team families, heart families, and the Crossroads Choir. Her involvement started when her third child was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Around that same time, she began playing piano at Crossroads — a role she's embraced for the past year.

Michelle says that support from others going through similar situations has been crucial for her family. "Our son gets to meet other kids like him," she shares. "For me, I love using my gifts in the church and making new friendships."

Michelle gives back generously. She teaches piano to children, helps with sports activities, and her husband coaches their kids' teams. Most importantly, her family opens their hearts to others facing similar struggles.

Michelle sees God's love lived out in her communities through hope, support, and trust in God, no matter what. During her son's hospital stays and surgeries, this became real. "We had so many people bring meals, clean our house, and get activities for our older kids," Michelle recalls. "People prayed for us and checked in on us."

Her parents live nearby and provide steady support. Friends, church family, and other heart families created a network of care that held them through the hardest times. Michelle uses her piano skills to share her faith with students and at church. "I love teaching worship songs," she says. She and her family show up for others in sports, service, and friendship—hoping to plant seeds of God's love wherever they go.

When asked where she finds Jesus in her communities, Michelle says simply: "I see God's presence in the conversations, support, prayers, and joy of those around us."

This Christmas, Michelle's story reminds us that Jesus is present in the meals brought to hospital rooms, in the prayers lifted up for vulnerable children, in the music played in worship, and in the friendships formed between families facing similar struggles.

Michelle and her family show us what it means to both receive and give grace. As you celebrate this season, consider: What communities are you part of? How can you show up for others? Where is Jesus calling you to use your gifts?

When we open our hearts to community — receiving support, giving generously, and pointing others to Jesus — we discover we're never truly alone.