The Advent season continues, that ancient tradition of preparing our hearts to celebrate Christ’s birth. We now move into the third week, whose theme is joy, and that will be our focus all week at “Change Begins in You.”

Isaiah 35 provides a vivid description of the joy experienced by God’s redeemed people. We read in vv1-2, “The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the LORD, the majesty of our God.” Then v10: “And the ransomed of the LORD shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.”

What a vivid picture of transformation—barren places bursting into bloom, the wilderness singing! This isn’t temporary happiness; this is “everlasting joy,” resting secure like a crown on the redeemed.

Notice who brings this joy: it comes as God’s people “see the glory of the LORD” (v2). True joy flows from encountering God’s presence and glory.

This is what we celebrate at Christmas: God breaking into our wilderness through Jesus Christ. The Messiah came to transform our spiritual deserts into gardens, replacing “sorrow and sighing” with gladness. His arrival inaugurated this everlasting joy Isaiah prophesied.

This third week of Advent, remember that true joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances but in our redeeming God’s presence. The Messiah who came as a baby continues bringing transformation and everlasting joy to all who encounter his glory. Open your heart afresh, and let his joy crown your life.

May you be blessed this Advent!

Change begins in you!