Finding Wonder and Joy During Advent

As the Advent season comes to a close in these last days before Christmas, it beckons us to embrace an attitude of wonder and joy. 

This special time of year, brimming with lights, decorations, and the warmth of community, serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty surrounding us and the joy that can be found in the simplest of moments. 

However, as we grow older, the relentless demands of daily life often cloud our sense of wonder, leaving us in a routine that can feel tedious and uninspired. It is in this loss of wonder that our joy can also diminish.

Children possess an innate ability to experience wonder—a quality that shines brightly during the Advent season. For them, the twinkling lights on the Christmas tree are not merely decorative but a magical display that transforms their world. 

The anticipation of Christmas morning fills their hearts with excitement, turning every day into a countdown filled with potential and surprise. Their laughter and awe remind us that wonder is not just about grand gestures but can also be found in the smallest details—a snowflake landing softly on the ground, the taste of hot cocoa, or the smell of freshly baked cookies.

In his book Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let's Dance, Bret Hansen writes: 

“Wonder becomes the lens through which we see the world, transforming the mundane into the miraculous.” 

This quote reflects the essence of the Advent season, as it urges us to recapture that sense of awe that can turn our everyday experiences into extraordinary moments. The ornaments we hang on the tree represent memories and legacies that connect us to those we love, present and gone, making them much more than mere decorations.

The Bible speaks vividly about the joy and wonder surrounding the coming of Christ. In Luke 2:10-11, the angel proclaimed to the shepherds:  

“Do not be afraid; I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” 

This message encapsulates the very heart of Advent—joy rooted in divine wonder. It’s a call to recognize the miraculous gift we have all been offered and allow it to fill our hearts with joy.

Richard Rohr, in his collection of daily reflections Yes, And, invites us to consider the interconnectedness of all things. He writes: 

“We are seeing more and more that a real relationship with God leads us to a real relationship with ourselves, with the earth, and with others.” 

This interconnectedness reminds us that our sense of wonder doesn’t just belong to us; it thrives in community. The joy of this season is magnified when shared with others, sparking connections that nourish our spirits and elevate our awareness.

So, as we embrace the days of Advent, let us challenge ourselves to rediscover and nurture a sense of wonder. 

What if we approached this season through the eyes of a child? What if we slowed down enough to marvel at the beauty around us, to appreciate the stories behind our holiday traditions, and to celebrate the bonds that connect us? 

Imagine taking a few moments each day to notice the little things—a child’s laughter, the beauty of the night sky, or the warmth of a loved one’s embrace. Each moment of recognition brings a surge of joy that can remind us of the infinite goodness in our lives and the blessings we often overlook.

Advent is a time of anticipation, reflection, and joy. Let us embark on this journey with open hearts, eager to find wonder in our lives again. Embrace the season's magic and allow it to fill your spirit with joy, hope, and love. 

As you engage with the world around you, may you rediscover the wonder that transforms the simplest moments into a joyous celebration of life.

May it be so, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.