The Third Week of Advent: Joy

The third week of Advent invites us to pause and celebrate joy—unshakable, enduring joy that goes beyond fleeting happiness. As we light the pink candle on the Advent wreath, we remember the angels proclaiming the good news to the shepherds:

“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.” (Luke 2:10-11)

This joy isn’t rooted in perfect circumstances, but in the assurance of God’s presence with us. It’s the joy of knowing that Christ is near, bringing light into our darkest days.

This week, I’ve experienced that joy in so many ways. One evening, I found myself driving through town, marveling at the glowing Christmas lights while Christmas carols filled the car. There’s something timeless and comforting about those moments—seeing how people come together to brighten the world around them and feeling a quiet connection to something greater.

At school, my students brought their own kind of joy. We worked as a team to create a garland for our classroom, using rolls of ribbon to string something beautiful together. Their laughter, collaboration, and creativity turned a simple activity into a celebration of unity. By the time we finished, it wasn’t just the classroom that looked brighter—our hearts felt lighter, too.

Joy also came to life last Friday during The View Cafe’s Christmas Open House. My mom, who pours so much love into everything she does, was beaming afterward, filled with pride and gratitude for the evening’s success. But the real magic was in the faces of the children who came to visit. Watching them light up at the sight of Buddy the Elf and Santa was a reminder of the pure, unfiltered wonder this season brings.

At home, I felt a special kind of joy as I sat with Josef-Henri and Grayson, building gingerbread houses together. Between frosting-covered fingers and candy-strewn counters, we shared stories and laughter. Josef-Henri’s words touched my heart deeply: “You’ve always taken care of us, Sammi. Now it’s our turn to take care of you.” Those words reminded me how joy is found in the love and care we share with one another—it’s a circle, ever-giving and ever-receiving.

As you move through this third week of Advent, I encourage you to reflect on the places where joy shows up in your life. Maybe it’s in quiet moments, like a drive through a sea of lights, or in the company of loved ones creating something special together. Perhaps it’s in the face of a child, the warmth of a heartfelt conversation, or the knowledge that someone sees and loves you.

This week, let us embrace the joy of Advent, knowing that it stems from the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ. Wishing you a week full of laughter, connection, and a joy that overflows.

Sammi