Hello Friends,
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12
How can we make room for joy? Just looking back over this historic year can cause our stress level to reach record highs! Sadly, many may be secretly hoping that December flies by so we can SLAM the door on 2020! As we think ahead to 2021, we may not take time to think of, let alone make room for, joy. The waiting, wonder, hope, and joy of Advent cannot be another casualty of the Corona Virus pandemic. Advent provides us the opportunity to live in the present, being mindful of all that has happened in the past, as we await the Joy of a new beginning.
So again, how do we make room for Joy? The four weeks of Advent could provide a wonderful opportunity for us to think about all we’ve been through this past year—and how with God’s help, we’ve adapted. A great example is the colorful heart filled windows that popped up all over the country to share positivity, hope, and beauty as we practiced social distancing. In the midst of this huge heartache, we were able to share joy by simply pasting a colorful heart to our windows.
On the third Sunday of Advent, we will do our best to help you make room for Joy! Joy Sunday has always been the day our children presented their Christmas play, and this year, we plan to keep up the tradition. As you all well know, our children’s program comes in all shapes and sizes. We’ve had adorable angels, short shepherds, shy sheep, witty wisemen, shiny stars, and terrified teenagers. You know, all the usual suspects! Join us Sunday December 13th through the magic of online worship as we make room for Joy in a delightfully different way.
Wishing you all Peace and Joy,
Nan