Author: Alexandra Mead, Director of Children, Youth, and Families
Reading: Luke 3:7-18
Meditation
Joy and Love go hand in hand here at PCM. We feel joy because we know God’s love for us. In Romans 15:13 we are told, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Wow! What an amazing blessing Paul gives us. The Advent season sparks Joy in the hearts of our children as they anticipate the coming of Christmas. Hearing the story of Jesus’ birth, the lights, decorations, Christmas crafts, and joyous songs from our choir help to build the anticipation. Our children feel joy making secret gifts for their parents in Sunday school and midweek and as they practice the songs they will sing on Christmas Eve. The children look forward to dressing up as sheep and angels and shepherds for our Christmas pageant.
When asked where I have witnessed a sense of joy at PCM. My answer is truly, everywhere we gather with our children and youth. This church is a second home to so many of our children. They are comfortable in our buildings, they run, they sing, they greet each other with smiles and hugs. They come back to visit after they have graduated. They have learned through our bible stories that God loves them beyond measure and understanding, that Jesus walks with them through this life.
The story of Advent tells us that when Mary goes to visit her cousin Elizabeth, they both felt great joy. That wonderful feeling of love and joy is the Holy Spirit. When God is present with us through the Holy Spirit, we are filled with Joy. Mary and Elizabeth show us that when we are with people we love, God is there too!
May this season of Advent remind you to pause and thank God for His love and the joy in your life.
