For some, the season of Advent brings sorrow. Tragic events from the past seem to overwhelm us, much less leave us feeling anxious and ill at ease. The psalmist spoke of pain when asked to sing the music of his homeland. From exile, he cries out, “But how could we possibly sing the Lord’s song on foreign soil?” (Ps. 137:4, CEB).

     Amid our sorrow, a gentle voice whispers that a glimmer of hope shines even in the deepest darkness. It may start as a faint light, but it beckons us, drawing us closer until we are bathed in its radiant glow. Something deep within us stirs, recalling the joy of the light, and in the heart of the darkest night, we find ourselves singing a song of hope. The power of this melody is transformative, dispelling the shadows of despair and fear.

     While despair may cast its shadow during Advent, let us actively seek the hope of salvation. The promise of joy, even in the darkest of nights, guides our wounded hearts to the presence of the long-awaited one. As we follow this light, it may lead us to a profound worship, where our only response can be, “Rejoice!” We transition from despair to hope, a journey that is the essence of the Advent season.

     This Advent, as we cleanse our spiritual house, let us rid ourselves of the clutter that ensnares us in hopelessness. Love, in its purest form, yearns to inhabit our hearts. Let us prepare the Holy of Holies with the best room we can offer. Let us give all we have so that Divine joy may find a place of rest in our souls, rejuvenating us for the journey ahead.

O Come, O Come Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lowly exile here. Until the Son of God appears, Rejoice!