Caroling

Tonight was our annual Christmas caroling to celebrate the 3rd week of advent- joy!  I got the list of our members in nursing homes or assisted living places.  There were extra cookies from this morning's service so we packed them and attached a candy cane for each person.  We signed cards.  And then, off we went! 
I know some of the youth aren't excited about singing.  But, tonight as I was rushing around getting things ready, youth kept coming!  And, thanks to God, so did adults who were willing to drive!  That in itself made my day.  I was not sure I'd have a great turnout. 
As we went to each home or place, we sang 3 songs and wished them all "Merry Christmas!"  As we piled into each place, I noticed they were all singing!  Maybe not at the first place, but the Christmas spirit was contagious.  And, as the youth could see the reactions of those who were listening, they realized that they were spreading joy.  They were making a difference to somebody else.  We had people listen to us, sing with us, and we had a few tears of joy shed. 
When we got back to the youth house, we gathered to talk about joy.  And, to me it was evident that there was a mood of joy and excitement in the room.  The teens were proud and happy about what they had spent the last 3 hours doing.  So, even if they didn't start out excited about singing, by the end of the night, they realized that wasn't what it was about at all.  They realized it was about giving of their time, sharing joy, and letting someone else know that they were cared about and loved.  And, when that happens, I know God is present to share in the joy!
Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
Blessings,
Jennifer