With the pressure to be perfectly obedient taken away from us, we rejoice, pray, and give thanks because God has given us everlasting and adaptable joy. Rejoice in the Lord!

God wants us to examine our hearts and minds. This week we see the Lord’s investment in this preparation in the person and work of John the Baptist.

In the Old Testament, God’s people watched and waited for the Messiah’s first coming. So we, too, wait for our Savior’s birth—Christmas’ joy & peace—and our Savior’s triumphant return.