“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” So writes the Apostle Paul in his first letter to the Thessalonians (5:16–18).

Despite its secular reputation as the “happiest time of the year,” the weeks before Christmas can be wearying—for students and faculty wrapping up final projects and grades, for Christian leaders shepherding congregations through Advent, and for all those for whom this season sharpens the ache of grief and loss.

In a world full of such change, anxiety, and heartache, how do we respond to Paul’s invitation to “rejoice always”? Is rejoicing just another item to put on December’s never-ending to-do list?

I love the reframing Dwight Zscheile, vice president of innovation, offered in response to a listener’s question about how to engage people who already feel worn out and overscheduled on a recent episode of Faith+Lead’s Pivot Podcast. He asked, “God, what are you saying to us through our tiredness? What do we need to simplify? What do we need to stop doing?”

In this fast-paced, accelerating society, our Christian traditions offer deep, countercultural wisdom and healing. In the midst of our busyness, the Advent season calls us to slow down, to wait, and to watch. In the midst of our plans and hectic schedules, the coming of the Christ child reminds us that God works through unexpected people in surprising ways. Into our deep weariness, the prophet speaks a word of comfort.

The third candle shining in the Advent wreath this week reminds us that joy isn’t something we do—it’s a gift that we receive from the One who came into this life as love incarnate.

As Christmas approaches, we pray the gift of joy meets you exactly where you are, wherever that may be. Thank you for your faithful support of our seminary community in this season and throughout the year!

Peace and blessings,

Robin Steinke
President