Joy of Advent
‘For our light and momentary troubles are achieving
for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all’
(2 Corinthians 4:17).
The great Christian author, C.S. Lewis once preached a sermon on this passage.
He made the point that we would one day be covered with such glory that we would hardly recognise ourselves.
As he also said in his book ‘Surprised by Joy,’ you cannot decide to be joyful.
Joy comes when we see something which gives us joy and we are spontaneously joyful.
The greatest joy we will ever know is to see God’s glory displayed in the face of Jesus.
His first advent, born of the Virgin Mary, created great joy.
His second advent, to judge the world and bring his people home will be even more joyful.
Despite the troubles and pains we may feel in this life; we can look back with joy and forward with joy.
In fact, to know Jesus here and now is our joy.
Question for thought: How would I describe what heaven will be like?
Glorious Lord, we thank you for the faithfulness of members
in Ireland and especially in the diocese of Derry and Raphoe.
We give thanks for their commitment to raise awareness of gender-based violence
and domestic abuse within their communities. ‘What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to walk humbly with your God.’(Micah 6:8)
We bring before you the Diocese of the Murray in South Australia praying for their plans
for the parenting program as it reaches out to families. AMEN.