Anticipating Christmas: A 5-Day Advent PlanSample

The Joy Set Before Us

And when they saw the star, they were so ecstatic that they shouted and celebrated with unrestrained joy. When they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, they fell to the ground at his feet and worshiped him. Matthew 2:10-11a TPT

Joy: the praise-filled assurance that God is in control and working everything out for our good and His glory.

It can be difficult to feel joyful in the time leading up to Christmas. The holidays can be stressful, hectic, lonely, or painful. 

But, the joy that Jesus’ arrival represents isn’t conditional or fleeting. It’s enduring and unshakeable. It’s a joy that moves beyond the walls of the world.

Jesus’ birth wasn’t the royal arrival anyone anticipated. And yet, it changed everything. In an instant, the Son of God became “God with us”—and over 2,000 years later, our weary world is still rejoicing.

Today, we invite you to delight in the wonder of Jesus’ birth. 

A Prayer for Joy:

Jesus, 

Thank You for becoming Immanuel, God with us. It’s because of You that I can experience true joy.

You are worthy of all glory, honor, and power—and so no matter what I face, I will choose to worship You.

Help me to consider it joy when I experience trials because I know You’re creating something beautiful and eternal.

God, remind me to take refuge in You and rejoice. Your comfort gives me renewed hope and cheer. In Your presence there is fullness of joy! 

And because of Your humble arrival over 2,000 years ago, I am able to experience the joy of Your presence forever. Thank You.

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen.