Advent plays an important role in the yearly rhythm of life for a disciple of Jesus. It is easy for us to be distracted with responsibilities, obligations, interruptions, tragedies, and every thing else life has for us. Advent is an intentional season of reflection on the first coming of Jesus too help motivate us to continue to prepare for his second coming.
The third week of Advent is a reflection on joy. Biblical joy is finding delight in life in spite of your circumstances. With our modern technologies and luxuries it would be easy to assume that finding delight with life would be easy, but it is not. According to studies Americans are unsatisfied and unhappy about the state of their lives.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived in a time when life was difficult. Hard work was required for survival, the smallest of comforts seemed like luxuries, and they were ruled by the Roman Empire, with all of their violent oppression and heavy tax burden. In spite of this, Mary was able to have joy in her heart.
Text: Luke 1:46-56
Bottom Line: Our joy comes from God’s work in our lives.
Challenge: Thank God for the blessings in your life that bring your joy. Be specific about what those blessings are.
