On the third Sunday of Advent (Dec 14), we anticipate celebrating the incarnation with Joy. This year, we're looking at Advent through the lens of the Abrahamic Covenant of Promise. We remember this covenant with an acorn, because it's a big seed. The lid of the acorn represents three key blessings promised to Abraham — a seed (offspring), land, and relationship with God.

The point of the acorn represents the point of the covenant, a blessing through Abraham that "all nations will be blessed through you"(Gen 22:18; Gal 3:8, etc.). This is the promise of Christ, the 'reason for the season.'

As we dwell on 'Joy,' we reflect on the seed promised to Abraham. Isaac's name literally means "he laughs." God had plans for Abraham's household as a family unit and as a legacy that would usher in THE seed, Jesus Christ, who has us singing Joy to the World to this day and forevermore.

Joy is a relational experience that connects us to God and others. The Abrahamic Covenant symbolizes God's promise of this belonging. Throughout the Old Testament, we see the recurring theme of belonging in such refrains as "I will be your God, and you will be My people" (Gen 17:7; Exo 6:7; Deu 29:13; Jer 30:22, etc.).

How does this sense of belonging inform our sense of joy? Is there a difference between relational and spiritual joy? How can we meditate on and cultivate more joy during this Advent season?

God not only desires a people for Himself but even invites us into a joyful relationship with Him and with each other. May you experience the JOY of belonging to our God this season.

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Stay On the Trail toward a Deeper Walk with God with father-daughter duo Marcus & Stephanie Warner. Listen in on conversations about important models and concepts that inform the way we live the Christian life. We talk philosophy, theology, and practical issues related to heart-focused discipleship.