Wednesday Wonder – December 18, 2024

Joy is the word for the third week of Advent. We have celebrated hope and peace. Now we search for joy in the season.

People often assume there is plenty of joy during the lead up to Christmas, and at Christmas itself. But that isn’t always the case. For many, this time of year with its lights, presents, gatherings and music, is not filled with joy. The very things that bring joy to some of us, are also the very things that leave others feeling less than joyful.

And yet, this time of year is a joy filled time. The true reason for the season brings joy to all of us. The coming of the Christ child brings all of the words we use in Advent to life. It brings hope, peace, joy and love. It brings a new light into the darkest time of the year. It reminds us that we are not alone. It reminds us that all the trappings of Christmas are not what is important. We can still have Christmas without the lights, presents, music, gatherings, decorations, etc. We already have all we need to celebrate Christmas. We have the love of a God who gave us a gift and continues to give. A God who wanted to be among all of creation. God-with-us is the reason for the season. God-with-us fills our hearts and minds.

We can share all of this with others, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year. We can share the light of God-with-us to add some joy to the lives of others. We can live with joy, now and always.

This time of year I refuse to leave the house unless the joy of Christmas is showing. It is the season of peace and goodwill to all. If I can’t share it, show it, then I don’t go out. Our lives are already too full of things that take the hope, peace, joy and love out of life at times. Christmas returns it to us once again. Knowing God is with us, always, reminds us that Christmas is just a day, but what it reminds us about is forever.

Whether Christmas is a time that excites you, exhausts you, or leaves you feeling a bit blue, the true meaning of Christmas does bring the joy we talk about in the third week of Advent. Anyone who attended, in person or online, last Sunday left with joy in their hearts after our amazing cantata (Thank you choir and friends!). The joy of Christmas is not found outside, but within. It is found where we keep God-with-us.

Celebrate Christmas however you are able on December 25. Then celebrate Christmas everyday by sharing the hope, peace, joy and love that God-with-us truly means.

May the joy of the season be yours.

Rev. Mary-Jane