In the third week of Advent, we start to pivot from preparation to anticipation.  Having taken some concrete steps to ready ourselves for the birth that is to come, we can now embrace the joy that has been patiently waiting for us.  This is not the fleeting, worldly joy of pleasure or happiness; rather, it is a deep and lasting contentment offered to us by the Ancient of Days — a joy that comes from being in right relationship with God.  

Too often, we live problem-centered lives.  We place our struggles at the forefront and allow them to consume much of our energy.  In doing so, we let our intrinsic, God-given joy be stolen by worry and fear.  Yet there is a way to reclaim our authentic joy: by returning God to the center of our lives.

When we live God-centered lives, joy naturally follows.  We discover a calm inner gladness — despite our circumstances — because we are confident that “there is a God, and it is not me.”  We surrender our illusions of control and rejoice that God has gone before us, is ever-present with us, and will forever pursue us (Deuteronomy 31:8). Experiencing God in this way becomes a source of joy unending.

“Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.” ― Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, S.J.

Reflection questions:  In what ways have I been living problem-centered? What would it look like for me to live more God-centered? How might I turn one worry or fear over to God this Advent?

May you be inspired!    

NOTE: This reflection is part of an Advent Reflection Series initially published by Tau Center.  You can find the full series on  Still Point.