Joy East of Eden

Joy East of Eden
by Julia Gillette

Desert. When we hear this word, we might think of extreme temperatures, parched landscape, and sparse vegetation. These are all accurate descriptions of the desert.

Within the biblical narrative, the desert was often the setting in which something transformative took place in the life of an individual. David and Elijah are only two examples of those who spent time in the desert or wilderness.

The wilderness experience was often a season in which the individuals were waiting for specific situations to be resolved or made right.
 
In this season of Advent, we also wait. And, in a sense, we feel the desolation of the desert. We see a world scarred by sin. And yet, this is not the end. Advent reminds us that there is more to the story and this present darkness will give way to joy.

  Psalm 126: 4-6
Restore our fortunes, Lord,
    like streams in the Negev.
Those who sow with tears
    will reap with songs of joy.
Those who go out weeping,
    carrying seed to sow, 
  will return with songs of joy,
    carrying sheaves with them.

These verses remind us that our tears and weeping are a prelude to the joy that will one day be fully realized. And as we wait, we are seen by a good Father who makes spacious the heart as we hold both the pain of the wilderness and inklings of the joy to come.    

Here, in this Advent season, may we be surprised by the glowing threads of this promised joy, woven through the story, as we gather with friends, light the candles, savor good food, and sing the hymns.
 
Perhaps joy feels impossible to find in this season. For those who find themselves here, an honest conversation with God is perhaps the bravest step toward joy that can be taken. Joy in the life of a believer is neither denial nor continual optimism.

Perhaps joy here in the not-yet is simply a persistent search that leads us to find and name the many ways in which the Light touches us here...now, east of Eden.