Advent is a season of waiting and preparation for the coming of Emmanuel, God with us, in flesh through the baby Jesus. The many challenges we’ve faced this year as a congregation, community, nation and world have tested our patience and perseverance in ways we couldn’t have imagined and the need for both continues. Although we will miss many of the holiday traditions that are dear to us, it’s likely the pace of what can be a phrenetic season will be slowed. In the midst acknowledging our yearning for normalcy, how can we experience our faith, family and friends in new and life-giving ways? The Psalms will guide us on the journey.

This week, Pastor Beth uses Psalm 126 to focus on joy. Verse 6 says “Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.”