The Humble Path to Joy
Why don’t Advent candles ever get in arguments? Because they always lighten the
mood!
Dear Southport UMC,
Here we are, deep in the season of Advent! If your December calendar looks anything
like mine, it’s probably overflowing with plans, tasks, and Christmas cheer. Amid the
busyness, it’s easy to lose sight of the deeper meaning of this season. This week, as we light the third Advent candle, we pause to focus on joy.
The third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice” in
Latin, and this day traditionally offered a break from the penitential tone of early Advent observances. The rose-colored candle, along with pink vestments or stoles, reminds usto celebrate with joy because Christmas is near!
But joy isn’t just a feeling or a brief break from the stress of life—it’s something deeper. While happiness depends on what’s happening around us, joy is rooted in Christ. Philippians 2:5-7 reminds us to “have the same mind as Christ Jesus, who…emptied himself” for us. Joy comes when we humble ourselves, letting go of pride and control, and allow the love of Christ to fill our hearts.
This truth came alive for me recently while watching kids decorate cookies at our church event last week. It was messy and far from perfect, but the laughter and shared delight reminded me that joy isn’t found in polished moments but in embracing the beautiful chaos of life.
As we approach Christmas, let’s not lose sight of hope and peace—the pillars of Advent we’ve already celebrated—and let’s embrace the joy that comes from Christ’s humility and love.
I invite you to join us this week in worship as we continue our journey through Advent.
Join us Thursday night, Sunday in person at one of our two services, or online via our
website or YouTube page. Let’s rejoice together!
Blessings,
Rev. William G. Nickrand
