We explore Advent as "WAIT Training" - celebrating Jesus' first coming while anticipating His return. Living between two gardens, in the "now and not yet," presents unique challenges, especially when joy feels just out of reach.Joy is more than a feeling. Kay Warren defines it as "the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things."Scripture reveals Jesus as a man of great joy. People wanted Him at their parties. Children ran to Him. He came "feasting and drinking," fully engaged with life. We find joy by staying close to Jesus and abiding in His ways (John 15:10-11).We must also choose joy. James 1:2-4 calls us to "consider it pure joy" when facing trials. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 exhorts us to "rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances." Corrie Ten Boom gave thanks for fleas in a concentration camp, discovering later that those very fleas kept guards away, allowing Bible readings to continue.Sometimes we avoid joy because of its vulnerability. Nicole Zasowski reminds us that protecting ourselves through pessimism or cynicism doesn't remove the sting of potential loss - it only robs us of hope and delight. Gratitude spoken out loud helps us tolerate joy's vulnerability.We don't get exemptions from suffering, but God's grace meets us in every circumstance. As we practice this WAIT training, remember: our faithfulness in waiting matters less than God's faithfulness in coming. His Spirit offers joy right now, and our joy will be complete when Jesus returns.URF WEBSITE: ➤ http://www.urfellowship.comSOCIALS: ➤ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urfellowship/➤ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urfellowship
