Please read Luke 1:46-55 first.
Mary said that she rejoices because of what we celebrate during Advent. This season seems to focus on that … or does it? Is there a difference between rejoicing, having joy, and the forced seasonal happiness so many expect us to have during this time of year? Too many people experience too stark of a contrast between their lives at this season and the rest of the year. Yet, if we are in touch with the joy that Mary had, a joy received from God, it can restore to us a sense of wholeness and community.
Joy is not a surface-level happy – it is deeply seated in one’s character. Joy may not always manifest itself in smiles and laughter, but rather in grace and assurance. Joy might be described as knowing something better exists, and holding onto that which is better.
Note how Mary's song, the Magnificat, highlights various contrasts. – that in opposition to brokenness, wrongs, sorrows and sighs, God will prevail, and one day all shall be well. We could also list many wrongs. In naming what is wrong, we can give it power over us. The more we focus on the wrongs, the more power we give them, for they seem even larger than they are. We must not forget what is right. We need to look for places where the reign of God is evident in our personal lives, in our community, and in the world. As you praise God, you will draw strength knowing that no matter the issue, joy truly “comes with the morning” (Psalm 30).
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