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The Third Sunday in Advent – Joy

We are human, and there are times like we miss the mark, putting our faith in man, the government, or even a role model. All we really need is to place our faith only in the One who is perfectly worthy.

As followers of Christ, we also encounter times of hardship and experiences where it feels as if we lost momentary joy. Our stress of circumstances, health issues, family or financial situations can drain every ounce of joy. Like David in the desert, we find ourselves searching for a cool drink of water. Yet also like David, when we turn to the Word of God, we find all the refreshment we need. (Psalm 42:1-2, 11)

Psalm 96 reminds us where our joy comes from. We are commanded to sing songs to God, to declare His glory among the nations, and to ascribe Him glory and strength due only unto Him. But what we really find is the true liberty, grace, and peace that enables us to sing, by means of His salvation.

Verse 2 reminds us – “…from day to day…” to tell of His salvation and to “declare His glory among the nations.” That’s what this country needs. That’s what this world needs: to hear of God’s great works and to worship Him for who He is.

In verse 10, we are instructed to “say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns!’” How about that? Doesn’t that bring joy to you? Doesn’t it reassure you that even in the midst of your difficulty or the defeat of your life’s choices, you can have the assurance that the Lord God Almighty reigns? That is Good News everyone needs to hear!

No matter how shaken we may be or how out of sorts the world seems, we can have confidence that God is in control. We have joy because we are granted access to the Father through the Messiah. This is why we not only remember, but celebrate His coming because of the joy He brings.

He has our lives in His hands. He has a purpose for each of us. He is even preparing a place for us to reside with Him one day for eternity. And, one day, He will return to “set everything right on earth.” (Ephesians 1:10, Isaiah 65:17-18, Revelation 21:1)

Let’s get moving today to share His word, to let others know that the Lord reigns! Let’s worship the Lord for His glory and power. He rules the world with truth and grace! Whether in the good or bad times, His truth brings joy to our hearts. (John 17:13, 2 Corinthians 7:7, Proverbs 10:28)

Reflection:

What brings you joy? Is it something temporal or is it something eternal? Contemplate your level of joy and allow the Incarnation of Christ to be the message overflowing from your heart and the praise spilling from your lips. Prepare Him room so that your joy may increase and become contagious.