December 15^th – 3^rd Sunday of Advent: The Candle of JOY

This candle reflects the joy that comes through Jesus’ arrival and the salvation He has gifted us. The shepherds experienced joy when they received the good news about Christ’s birth (Luke 2:8-20). The shepherds encountered angels during the middle of the night, the darkest time.

What Does the Bible Say about Joy?

Before we dive into some verses that talk about joy, we must establish an understanding of Biblical joy. Biblical joy goes beyond momentary happiness. Like the extreme excitement a child might experience when unwrapping a gift that they hoped for on Christmas Day, joy is an overwhelming happiness that cannot be deterred by circumstances. Biblical joy is rooted in God and is a byproduct of his presence (fruit of the Spirit). It is an eager anticipation of wonderful things to come. The shepherds experienced this joy as they ran to Bethlehem to see Jesus. 

With the definition established, let’s dive into what Scripture says about joy:

• God fills us with joy (Romans 15:13). We cannot will ourselves to experience joy. It comes from God alone.
• Joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). We experience joy as a result of spending time with God. Joy only comes from Him. When we spend more time with the Lord, we allow Him to fill us with joy.
• No one can take joy away from us (John 16:22). It is given to us by God Himself. Regardless of the circumstances we face, joy can always be found.
• Joy rests in things from God, such as salvation and righteousness (Psalm 51:12). Joy appears more than 100 times in the Bible.

Why Does This Matter?

Awareness of joy is essential because there is no need to despair while we wait for Christ to return. God has given us a joy that cannot be taken away. Regardless of what happens in this dark world, we can still experience joy.

As believers, we face difficulties in a way that sets us apart from the world. Even in our darkest moments, we have joy. Joy is essential to the Christian experience and vital for our journey. Like the shepherds, we need this joy as we eagerly await the coming of our Savior.

Read Isaiah 12:2-6 (NLT)

² See, God has come to save me.

    I will trust in him and not be afraid.

The LORD GOD is my strength and my song;

    he has given me victory.”

³ With joy you will drink deeply

    from the fountain of salvation!

⁴ In that wonderful day you will sing:

   “Thank the LORD! Praise his name!

Tell the nations what he has done.

    Let them know how mighty he is!

⁵ Sing to the LORD, for he has done wonderful things.

    Make known his praise around the world.

⁶ Let all the people of Jerusalem shout his praise with joy!

    For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you.”

Prayer of Joy

Heavenly Father, this third week of Advent, let us remember that the good news of Jesus’ birth has power. It has the power to bring us great joy this Christmas season. Those who gathered around the new baby were blessed because they believed and understood that You had fulfilled Your promises. Mary and Joseph believed and were able to experience the joy of holding baby Jesus, the Savior of the world, in their arms. The shepherds and wise men believed the angels and signs and experienced the great gladness of worshipping their Messiah. Those who knew Him and recognized Him were overjoyed at His coming. They trusted in Your promises, and their hearts were filled with gladness as they watched Your loving-kindness manifest in the face of a tiny baby in a lowly manger. 

We thank you that our joy is not dependent on our jobs, our families, our relationships, our finances, or our success. Our joy does not come from any treasure we find under the tree. No earthly thing will ever give us true joy. Our joy comes from You and You alone. The joy that flooded the hearts of the shepherds, the angels, the wise men, the hosts of heaven, and Mary and Joseph is the same joy that still has the power to overwhelm our hearts with rejoicing. 

Father, thank You for the joy we receive when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. You gave us a reason to celebrate when You gave us the gift of Jesus Christ who came to dwell among us. Your Word became flesh. You went to the cross for us, overcame death, and rose from the dead. Thank you that you forgive our sins and give us eternal life when we believe, repent, and confess You as our Savior. 

Our joy is a gift, and we thank you, Father. Our joy is encompassed in our Savior, King Jesus. Flood our hearts with joy this Advent season as we reflect on the good news of Jesus’ birth. Allow us to experience joy like never before.  In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen

Reflection/Discussion

• What are some things that bring you immense joy in your life?
• Are there areas in your life in which you struggle to find joy? 
• Do you experience Biblical joy in your daily walk?
• Happiness is dictated by facts; joy is defined by truth. Are you in the habit of counting your blessings when things get tough?
• This week, share the joy of the Gospel with someone you meet.  Let them know the reason for your joy!

Songs: 

• Joy to the World (Unspeakable Joy) ----Chris Tomlin

https://youtu.be/4opEM4SDQn4?si=9ErgeUPx60be8D3h 

• Angels We Have Heard on High----For King and Country

https://youtu.be/8V7sLV2uqIs?si=DnGSgd81b55SJKia