Listen

The desert and the dry land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like the crocus. They will burst into bloom, and rejoice with joy and singing. They will receive the glory of Lebanon, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the Lord’s glory, the splendor of our God.

Isaiah 35:1-2

Think

Spring Break…are you thinking about that yet? I love planning and dreaming about birthdays, breaks, and summer. It is easier to live in a time of celebration and relaxation, when there is no hurt and no conflict. Isaiah was doing the same thing during a really hard time and prophesied basically that things will get better. Isaiah said even the desert will rejoice and blossom. Out of great despair is a glimpse of joy that is on the horizon. In this is our hope.

We could look so far ahead that we miss what is happening right here, right now. Our hope has the ability to anchor us to this present moment so that we can take notice. Take notice of what God is doing in and around us. Take notice of the ones who love us and whom we love. Take notice of ordinary occurrences that fill our hearts with great joy.

Let us plant our feet in this Advent day and be fully present for this gift from God. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not yet here, but today is full of hope and promise.

Michelle Thomas-Bush

Pray

If you are able, settle yourself in this moment and take a few deep breaths. I mean really deep breaths. Let God fill you with each life-giving breath.

God, push aside all that holds me in the past or pulls me into the future.

Guide me through these Advent days to be fully present with myself and others.

Open my heart to all that is good and kind and faithful.

Open my eyes to the joy that surrounds me this day and always.

This is my Advent prayer, amen.

Go

The good news of great joy isn’t just something to receive, accept, or even consume.

Be great joy.

Offer great joy in kind, loving relationships with those you love and those you haven’t even met yet.

God is still trying to get to us to bring good news of great joy for all the people. ALL THE people. That means you. And me. And them.

Good news of great joy for ALL.