Colette Maher is the ReStore Development Manager here at Habitat for Humanity Ireland. Read her Advent reflection below.
These favourite lyrics remind me of my favourite picture of joy in Scripture: John the Baptist — a tiny baby still in Elizabeth’s womb — leaping for joy as he recognises the presence of Jesus when a pregnant Mary arrives.
“As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” – Luke 1:44
This moment shows that true joy doesn’t depend on circumstances or certainty; it flows from the presence of Jesus, who brings “good news of great joy for all people” (Luke 2:10). Advent invites us to rediscover this deep, steady joy given to us by God.
I help open new ReStores across Ireland, and each opening brings real excitement as we try to put ‘God’s love into action’. That sense of anticipation reflects the spirit of Advent — excitement, hope, and joy. A ReStore is more than a low-cost DIY shop; it builds connection, gives people a place to belong, and brings a little ‘good news’ to communities that need it.
Christ comes into ordinary places — a stable, a town, a life — and transforms them. “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14), and wherever He is welcomed, joy follows.
As we look to more ReStore openings in 2026, my prayer is that Habitat’s presence reflects, in some small way, Christ’s joy — and that people experience not just practical support, but the deeper joy of being seen, valued, and loved.
Lord Jesus, thank you that your coming brings a joy no circumstance can take away. As John leapt at your nearness, may we also be filled with joy as we welcome you this Christmas.
Bless and bring joy to the communities we serve, the ReStores we open, and the volunteers, customers, donors, and families we meet. “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together…but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24–25)
Amen.
