Advent devotion: Wonder
By Pat Sierk
“And wonders of His love,” the final refrain of “Joy to the World,” reminds me of the children’s book “Wonder.” This best-selling 2012 novel by R.J. Palacio introduces an unforgettable character, ten-year-old Auggie, an ordinary boy who has severe facial deformities.
“Wonder” is defined as a feeling of amazement and admiration caused by something beautiful, remarkable, or unfamiliar. 
Auggie’s new fifth-grade classmates struggle with the unfamiliar in “Wonder.” Summer chooses friendship; know-it-all Julian opts for bullying. Their wise teacher introduces a precept: When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.
Mary Oliver, a poet who reflects on wonder in our world, writes:
Let me keep my distance, always, from those
Who think they have the answers.
Let me keep company with those who say
“Look!” and laugh in astonishment,
And bow their heads.
As we sing “…and wonders of His love” this month, let us remember that God rules the world with truth and grace. Let us surround ourselves with those who admire the beautiful, remarkable, and unfamiliar. And let us choose kindness.
Pat Sierk is the grandmother of Jack, Elsa, Caroline, Maddie, and Natalie.
Anne Budde
Thank you, Pat! The poem you noted profoundly spoke to me…appreciate the message of kindness.