Christmas is upon us and as we celebrate Advent and the coming of Christ I find JOY in the little things; ability to tie my own shoes, purchase groceries for our family, our pets, each-other, alpine lit glow, and I could go on. As I reflect on JOY and finding it in the little things, in honesty this has only happened through a maturing relationship with God.

“When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!” ~ Matthew 2:10

JOY 101 from the Wise men:

1. Find JOY in the small things
2. Honor Christ before all else
3. Give the treasure of yourself to others
4. JOY gives us glimpses of divine love
5. In JOY adversity no longer holds us in bondage

Western society has taken the true meaning and JOY out of Advent (Christmas). Christmas season is within a true calendar year starting the fourth Sunday before Christmas. My husband and I witnessed Christmas season in our local department stores, online, and even on websites in October! As a society bringing the main focus of retail,  and the “mighty dollar”, we lose JOY.

Throughout the year our focus should always be on JOY and not what Western society deems as joyful, happiness, or love.

Why be focused on JOY? The spark of JOY gives us hope for tomorrow, gives us reason to love others above ourselves, and gives us the true meaning of life; love. Jesus has given us a key to joy in John 15:11, “I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy.” This gives me goose-bumps, as Christ loves us so much he is willing to fill us with joy.

Advent Dates for 2013

• December 1, First Sunday of Advent
• December 8, Second Sunday of Advent
• December 15, Third Sunday of Advent
• December 22, Fourth Sunday of Advent

Look UP and OUT my Friends!

© 2013, Tracy Worley (Selkirk Coaching and Training Group). All Rights Reserved