Surprised by Joy

Way back in May, when the pandemic shutdown already seemed to have gone on forever and we were all hopeful for normal to return in a matter of weeks, many of us were learning how to be creative with our time at home. It was still novel, but even then we were exhausted. To keep things fresh, I would introduce my three-year-old to new songs which would stir us to dance in the living room. Among the musicals, 70s rock, and symphonies, I was surprised at how much joy we got from bouncing around to Christmas music. In May. I’m usually the type of person who waits until December 15th to change my radio over to the Christmas station. But, in a year where time has seemed to both stand still and fly by, I decided there were no rules on what could give us joy, and when.

That’s the thing about Christmas. The promise we have in our incarnate God can sustain us any day of the year. It can catch us off guard. Little moments in life can stir up fond memories of this holiday. Interactions with fellow human beings can remind us of how God became one of us, was born to a mother like ours, and had the very needs we and our neighbors have. Hope radiates through the help of strangers. Sparks of joy cut through bleak days like a light that shines in the darkness. You never know what will remind you of God’s breathtaking love.

I have so much enjoyed all the ways our congregation has shared this love with our community this year, and especially in this season of Advent. Mobile food pantries, intakes for Lutheran Social Services and Mosaic, our first live nativity event with dozens of volunteers and over 230 cars full of people, an online concert, and creative Christmas Eve services- All of these and more have been such a strong reminder that God is with us. The Body of Christ is alive and active, and God’s love will never leave us, no matter what the world may bring. I am beyond thankful for the many people of St. Mark who have worked tirelessly this year to remind us all of that never-ending love.

Wherever you might be celebrating, whomever you are with, remember that Christ is always with you. That is what we celebrate in the quiet and cold darkness of December. God, the creator and redeemer of us all, has come to dwell among us. Guest rooms may be empty this Christmas. The only thing finding rest on spare beds and extra dining room chairs is a little more dust. But God is with you, and God’s love can still spark moments of joy in your life.

In Jesus, we have a savior who knows what it is like to be human, to ache for the nearness of others and to be surprised by joy. I pray that you might find some of that joy in the coming days, as you remember once again the strange and beautiful hope of a newborn child, lying in a manger.

 Merry Christmas, and may God’s peace be with you,

 Pastor Chad McKenna