More on Joy

Advent. I grew up in a religious tradition that paid very little, if
any attention to this religious holiday. And I wouldn't say I am an
ardent follower today, but the ritual does intrigue me. I read this
morning that Advent is our invitation to stand up as children of God,
and that includes experiencing the freedom to be "children."

I spent some time at Academy yesterday with my wife and 10 mos. old
son. He is so full of joy right now. While Rhonda tried on some
clothes, he and I rode around the store laughing and waving at people.
One of the great things about kids is that their joy is contagious. He
made a ton of people smile yesterday and I wonder why my joy isn't the
same.

Jesus' birth ushers in a joy that is bigger than our circumstances. In
him, we can celebrate when nothing appears worthy of celebration in
our lives. This season I want my joy to rise above the chaos and
craziness of the holidays. I want the trimmings to remind me that
there is something more and his name is Jesus.