Sunday Service shared the Advent Shepherd's candle – the candle of Joy. A church mother who is an elementary school teacher (for many years) shared how she was raised not in wealth but with a spirit of Joy. She noted that Christians should rejoice in their lives in Christ and the continual joy will set us apart.
We then enjoyed a Children's Program of song and expression. Pastor shared a message in between the songs. Luke 2:8-10 tells us that the Glory of the Lord shone around the shepherds as the angels brought them good news that is cause for great joy!
Today we continue to exalt the miracle of Christ. Isaiah exclaimed that this is the Lord's doing – bringing joy, glee, singing, and worship. Isaiah 9:2-3.
Having joy is a choice. The good news brings great joy. We should assemble to worship. Psalm 102.
“ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,” Romans 14:17.
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51:12.
If a gift is offered to you, it doesn’t mean anything until you receive it.
Sometimes we lose our joy because we lose our focus. Like peace (last week’s message), joy is not based on our circumstances, but based on God's gift and presence within our lives.
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 ESV.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,” Galatians 5:22.
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12.
Let God work in your life.
“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,” 1 Peter 1:8.
When you have joy, you smile more, laugh more, complain less, and have more strength.
“Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10.
This is one of the songs the children sang.
They had very quiet finger snapping but liked the shout out joy part!
Luke 2:8-10 NIV
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Lord, help me be thankful daily for the joy you give me!
