Sometimes JOY is hard to find, and then, ADVENT
…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2 NASB).
We live in a real, hard world where families, the core of our culture, are falling apart. A dark cloud of oppression hovers, we carry the weight of the world, and disappointments linger.
What if I don’t feel joy during this holiday season?
The headlines are hard to read since they contain news about earthquakes, suffering, death, deceit, riots and violence. The headlines can easily and quickly steal all joy.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:4-6 NASB).
Paul encourages believers to rejoice! We rejoice because of one special baby who was born over 2,000 years ago to die for you and me.
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14 NASB).
The baby Jesus descended from the lineage of Abraham to reconcile [bring back together] and bless the families of the earth.
And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed (Genesis 12:3 NASB).
According to the World, royalty was born in a very odd place.
Mary may have been disappointed that there was no room in the inn.
According to the Word, the time, space, and place were perfect.
Mary was appointed to bring JOY to the world!
When joy is hard to find, we have to choose joy, and let the feelings follow.
And then God gives us this season of Advent to prepare our hearts. Advent officially begins tomorrow.
Let us slow down and join together to prepare our hearts to celebrate the gift of His presence – that special silent night when God sent a baby to us – for us. In Him is where joy is found.
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I don’t want to miss this season.
You will not want to miss this season!
With great joy, I will see you tomorrow.
Many Blessings,
Basking in His Light
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