This is the third week of Advent and we are getting ready for the arrival of the newborn King. This week we light the rose coloured candle on the Advent wreath. The other weeks in Advent have a repenting and preparing focus but the third week is all about joy - joyful anticipation for the coming of the Messiah. In the readings this week the crowd asked John the Baptist “what must we do to be ready for the Lord?” John answered that they should be “generous and kind and always ready to share whatever you have with others. Be honest and fair and be happy with whatever you’ve got.” What a fabulous message to hold onto! This time of year can become so busy and frantic that we often forget to focus on the real message ….. to be generous, kind, honest, fair and happy! As you prepare to celebrate Christmas with your family this year remember this, take time to enjoy those around you and, above all, remember that Jesus is the reason for the season! Merry Christmas to you all!