Joy for All My Children?

We’ve reached the third week Advent and the key word for this day is joy.

Our Gospel lesson from Matthew, though, speaks to doubts of the One who brings change in ways that don’t match our expectations.  John the Baptist, in prison, was struggling with the reports he heard about Jesus and asked “Are you the one?”

Expectations. Sigh. I find that I am often disappointed or have doubts when things don’t go the way I expect them to.  Or I’ve built something up with such high expectations that I am emotionally sabotaged when it takes a twist or turn.  I also find that in this time of expectation of the Christmas season, it’s really easy to do. Sigh, indeed.

So what do we do?  How can the joy in waiting be reclaimed for all of God’s children?  Can we let go of those expectations so that we are surprised with great joy at God’s work?  This is my Advent prayer.

And come – however you find yourself and wherever you are on your journey.  You are invited and welcomed and beloved.

In Christ,
Pastor Tina +