Advent! Week three. The season is pushing through at a phenomenal pace. It seems I barely cracked open my Advent devotional to get prepared (my heart and soul) for the “real reason” for this season and now we are entering week three. I’m probably still on the 20-yard line, and I oh so badly want to go all in with all that Advent has to offer us: Peace that surpasses understanding, love that pours through our every being, and a deep knowing that this period ushers us to experience the greatest gift. “Advent is the season of expectancy, preparation, and longing.” (Tsh Oxenreider)
As I prepared for this, a simple Google search presented this simple and perfect explanation of week three: “For the Joy that is ahead.” And oh boy, I feel that…I sense the build up. I am beginning to feel the energy shift into delight and lighter spirits all around. Hanukkah started this week and my friends who celebrate have been sharing their stories. My friend Nan, posted a message with the classic menorah and Christmas tree merged together with a simple message that said “two celebrations, one hope for peace.” I loved that!
The days of the work year are dwindling and there is a feeling of expectation from young to old… School in all of its forms this year will take a pause at the end of this week for most, and with any luck, our preparations for celebrating those around us will come to a point where we can take a deep and restorative breath.
I hope that you will pause today and focus on all of the crazy good that is ahead. The promises of God surround us in both word and action. In truth, they bring us absolutely everything that we need, (down to the last detail), to fully achieve our purpose and find incredible and true joy in service to others.