Saturday, December 20, 2025

Luke 1:46–49
Joy on the Edge of Arrival

Mary sings her song before the child is born. Her joy comes not from having all the answers, but from trusting what God has started. She rejoices, not because the path is simple, but because God keeps promises.

There is a particular kind of joy that comes when we are close, close to a long-awaited moment, close to an answered prayer, close to something new taking shape. Advent holds us in that space. We are not yet at Christmas, but we can feel it approaching. Joy gathers there, at the edge of arrival.

This joy is often quiet and steady. It shows up in final preparations, in small acts of care, in the ordinary faithfulness of showing up one more time. It reminds us that God does not wait for perfect conditions to draw near.

As this Advent week comes to an end, pause for a moment. Take a breath. Notice the joy that is already here, even before everything is finished. God is closer than we think.

Prayer:
God of promise, steady our hearts as we wait. Help us rejoice in what you are already bringing to life among us. Amen.