Can there be joy in a season when God calls us to work very hard to prepare for the coming of the Christ Child? The answer is a resounding yes. Our work during this time of the year is not just a task, but a journey of personal growth and understanding. We recall our very first experiences of recognizing our amazing God, those moments that transformed our thinking and deepened our faith. These are the moments that bring us joy, as we prepare for the coming of Christ.

     For me, I discovered my relationship with the Almighty through the transformative power of music. I remember the first time I sang in the choir, feeling the melodies and words join together to speak to me in a way that led me to Jesus. The phrases made my heart soar as I learned the source of my strength, hope, and love of making music. I recall my energy and excitement as our choir made last-minute preparations for our Christmas Cantata, the joy of being part of something bigger than myself. Music has a unique ability to touch our souls and lead us to God, and I am grateful for the role it has played in my spiritual journey.

     My music director, Alan Morrison, had me sing in the adult choir in eighth grade. It was there that I found my place, my sense of belonging, and the joy of expressing my faith through music. I learned how to harmonize, understand the theological assumptions made in the music’s text, and express the joy of my faith. I realized that my attendance mattered at rehearsals and during worship services when we sang. My foundation for making music in the world first started with a man who saw in me a lonely soul aching to find his place there.

     The realization of belonging and the joy that led me into ministry started during the season of Advent. Our hard work during this special season includes the excitement and inner peace we discover as we grow deeper in our relationship with our amazing God. May this season of Advent lead us to recall the time we encountered Jesus. As we work, let us find hope as we remember the first time that Christ loved us.