Advent Snowglobes (Day 15)

Today is the third Sunday of Advent. Originally Advent was a parallel of Lent- a seven week time of preparation, but for Christmas, not Easter. The middle Sunday of the season was meant to be a sort of lighter day, maybe a day of rest from the spiritual preparing. Advent was reduced to four weeks in time, but still, halfway through, we come to Gaudete (Latin: "Rejoice!") Sunday. Most churches light a pink, rather than purple, candle on the Advent wreath. The texts for the day speak of joy, and none better than this: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7). I chose this guy because as he skates his smile exudes joy. And may it be so with you. May you pursue the joy of the season in all that you do today, especially as you serve those in need; as John the Baptist said- if you have two coats and see someone who is cold, share. If you have plenty of food and see someone hungry, share. And experience joy in spreading the love of Christ.