Isaiah presents a beautiful image of a time of restoration and joy for God’s people. The dry and barren wilderness will bloom, waters will break forth, God’s people will be healed and God will create a safe highway for his people to return home.

For many, this is a particularly joyful time of year. On this Gaudete or rejoicing Sunday, the Old Testament reading offers us a joyous vision of renewal while the Gospel centres on joy being given in a place of questioning or despair. As we explore these, we think about how we may be bearers as well as receivers of the Lord’s joy.