Advent Week #3: JOY
Dear church,
As the Advent season unfolds, the flame of the joy candle on the Advent wreath invites us to explore the theme of joy. Beyond the glittering ornaments and festive melodies, joy in the biblical context is more than a fleeting emotion—it's a deep, abiding sense of gladness rooted in the transformative power of God's love rather than temporary circumstances.
In Luke, the announcement of John the Baptist's birth sets the stage for the Advent of joy…
"You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth." ~ Luke 1:14 NLT
This joy is not merely a celebration of a new life but a precursor to the ultimate arrival of Jesus, the source of boundless joy for the world. Let's go back to a moment of unparalleled joy in the Old Testament—the return of the Israelites from captivity in Babylon. Our Wednesday Night Men’s Bible Study has been studying the book of Nehemiah for a few weeks. In a few weeks we’ll come to Nehemiah 8 where Ezra encourages the people with these words…
"Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!" ~ Nehemiah 8:10 NLT
Their joy stemmed from the rediscovery of God's Word and the restoration of their relationship with Him. Similarly, our joy during Advent is anchored in the anticipation of Christ's birth, a celebration of the ultimate restoration of our connection with God. The joy found in the Christmas narrative is beautifully illustrated through Mary's encounter with her relative, Elizabeth. In Luke 1:44 (NLT), Elizabeth exclaims, "When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy!" Even in the womb, John recognized the presence of the Messiah, and this joy resonates throughout the entire nativity story. A few weeks ago we highlight the shepherds from Luke chapter 2. There they are, keeping watch over their flocks by night. The angel declares, "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" ~ Luke 2:10-11 (NLT). The shepherds, simple and humble, were the first to receive this joyous proclamation. Their journey to witness the newborn Savior mirrors our own pursuit of joy as we seek the presence of Christ in our lives.
As we light the joy candle this Advent, let's draw inspiration from these who experienced true joy unexpectedly. The Magi traveled from the East to witness the fulfillment of prophecies. The Magi's joy was not only in the discovery of the long-awaited Messiah but also in their act of worship. Similarly, our joy during Advent is enriched as we bow before the Christ-child in worship and gratitude. Joy, in the biblical context, is not contingent on external circumstances but is a deep wellspring that flows from knowing and being known by God.
As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, let's unwrap the gift of joy found in the birth of Jesus. Our joy is not a superficial response to the festivities around us but a profound celebration of the Savior who brings eternal joy. It's a joy that surpasses fleeting happiness and is anchored in the unchanging love of God. This Advent, let the joy candle be a beacon, guiding us to the heart of the Christmas story. Just as the shepherds, Magi, and ordinary people like us found joy in the presence of the newborn King, may our hearts resonate with the true joy that comes from knowing and embracing the love of Christ. In this season of anticipation, let joy be the melody that echoes in our hearts, drawing us closer to the extraordinary gift of Jesus—the source of everlasting joy.
I love you, church.
~ Daniel
PS – next week we will unpack the final advent candle’s theme, LOVE.
