As we enter the third week of Advent, our focus turns to the candle of joy. This week, we celebrate the nearing arrival of Christmas, illuminated by the long days and balmy nights of a Southern Hemisphere summer. Joy permeates the air, not just through the anticipation of the festive season but also through the very atmosphere of our sun-drenched surroundings.
The story of the first Christmas is rich with joyful anticipation. The shepherds in the fields under starlit skies, the wise men following a star with steadfast determination, and Mary herself, pondering the angel’s good news in her heart. Each of these stories invites us to also anticipate Christ’s coming with joy and expectation.
In this season, our preparations take on a joyful tone as communities come alive with festive markets, carols by candlelight in the open air, and families gathering for picnics and celebrations by the water. The warmth of the season encourages us to step outside, to breathe in the fresh air filled with the scents of blooming flowers and fresh grass, reminding us of the new life that Christ brings.
This week, let’s make a concerted effort to spread this inherent joy further. Consider the ways we can bring happiness to those around us—perhaps through sharing our table with someone who might be spending Christmas alone, or organizing a community event that brings together different parts of our neighborhood in celebration.
Joy in Advent isn’t just about the anticipation of Christ’s birth but also about actively spreading that joy in practical and meaningful ways. It’s about making the most of our summer Christmas by embracing the outdoors, enjoying the natural beauty of our environment, and using it as a backdrop to our Advent reflections and gatherings.
Let’s also take time to enjoy the simple pleasures that bring us joy. Whether it’s a quiet moment in the morning with a cup of coffee, watching the sunset with loved ones, or listening to a favorite Christmas carol, let these small joys accumulate and fill our days with the light of the season.
As we count down the days to Christmas, let our joy be deep and contagious. Let it reflect the profound joy of a world waiting for the wonderful gift of Jesus, and let it spill over into every area of our lives, making this summer one of the most memorable.
Comments