As Christmas draws near, we light the final Advent candle - the Candle of Love. Love is the heartbeat of the Christmas story: a God who came close, stepped into our humanity, and embraced us with grace. Never lose sight of the real reason for the season.

Joy is much deeper than happiness. It is born from God's truth that says, God is with us and He is for us. Even during uncertain times, God's joy rises up like a song inside our souls, reminding us that Christ's coming brings good news for all people.

Luke 2: 10 - But the angel said to them, do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

Christ's coming validates to what extent God, the Father, took to recover man's lost relationship with Him. Christ came to restore and renew.

Advent is the story of a God who steps into our longing - not from afar, but from within a manager.

My prayer is that as we enter into this Advent season. We are invited to wait not with fear, but with expectation, for the Light is coming. Advent reminds us that no matter how long the night may feel, God is already working. He steps into our waiting with purpose. He steps into our darkness with light. And even before we see the answer, hope invites us to trust that God is near.