‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ — Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.

This week we are celebrating the Advent season, a time of reflection and anticipation for the birth of our Savior, Christ Jesus. As we look toward a new year, Deborah, Ray, and I like to choose a word to focus on. Advent is about hope, love, joy, and peace. Some traditions may include selecting a word or activity for the day. My 2017 word of the year was “Flexibility,” which I used to guide me when my to-do list didn’t go as planned. I also made a mantra based off the word Joy, “Dance through life, seek joy in His presence.”

Choosing a word of the year can be what you want it to be. It can be as detailed as you have read this week or as simple as you want it to be. The important part is that we remember that word and or mantra throughout the year. With God’s help we can grow from that word. Deborah, Ray, and I have found it is easier to stick with a word for 365 days than it is a New Year’s resolution. Will you join us in this practice? What word or mantra will you choose for 2026? 

Let’s pray. Dear God, thank You for this sacred Advent season to reflect and grow closer to You. I desire to dance through this life and seek joy in Your presence. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

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