This third week of Advent centers on joy, and Dean turns our attention to one of Scripture’s most joyful moments – Mary and Elizabeth’s meeting in Luke 1:39-45, where even the child in Elizabeth’s womb leaps at the nearness of Christ. Paired with Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 4:4-7 to “rejoice in the Lord always,” we’re reminded that joy is not dependent on circumstances but anchored in God’s presence. Advent joy is a shared joy; when we rejoice together, that joy multiplies. As we await Christ’s coming, we celebrate that God is near, God is faithful, and God is at work among His people.
