Week three of Advent is upon us, and this week we light the pink candle on the Advent wreath.

Week one here.
Week two here.

Week 3: JOY

Somewhere along the way of “growing up,” we lose sight of the joy that this season brings. We get wrapped up in worries about finances, gift giving, making a good impression at Christmas parties, and making sure everyone else is happy. However, the joy of the season is meant for everyone. The old, the young, the rich, the poor… this season isn’t about gifts. It isn’t even really about twinkling lights or sparking diamonds. It’s about being surrounded by those we love. It’s about taking joy from seeing others’ joy. It’s about the sparkle in someones eyes when they see those twinkling lights, falling snow and/or take in the story of Christmas. May we all find joy in what really matters, and may we revel in that all the days of our lives.

You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound.
Psalm 4:7

With this sudden move looming, I won’t be doing much to prepare for Christmas. Our outdoor lights won’t be going up. I did decorate a little inside, but sadly, that will all come down within a couple weeks.  What preparations we’re doing comes in the form of decorating with friends, or just personal focus shifting to the season. I have a few gifts purchased, and I look forward to wrapping them. I need to put my cards in the mail soon, as well.

Last week, I started a focus on Advent. Tonight, I will continue it here:

Week 2: PEACE

“Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.”  Its one of my favorite hymns. I remember one particular Christmas eve night. I was riding the back seat of my parents car, on our way home from midnight mass. It was cold, and the sky was clear. A million stars twinkled above, as we cruised down a small farm-to-market road through the country. I felt so peaceful. I think its a moment in time when I can pinpoint feeling total peace. A shooting star streaked across the sky, and I closed my eyes to make a wish. I don’t remember the wish, but I remember that it didn’t matter if it came true or not. All that mattered was how perfect that night seemed…

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27