The third candle of Advent is JOY, also known as the Shepherd Candle: the joy that comes through Jesus’ arrival.
Philippians 4:4-5: Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I say, rejoice! Let everyone see your gentleness. The Lord is near! (NET)
No matter what color your church uses for this third candle, I want to highlight the importance of joy in the Advent season. During a time when depression is at an all-time high, and people seem to be in the most despair, this candle offers a bright light during a dark time. (christianity.com)
This candle also highlights the joy the shepherds experienced when they encountered the Angel Gabriel and the host who accompanied him as he announced the birth of the Messiah. It was during the darkest time of the night when this announcement was made. (Luke 2:8-15)
The joy referred to in the Bible is an extreme happiness that cannot be affected by present circumstances. This kind of joy can only come from God! (Romans 15:13)
No one can take joy from us, (John 16:22).
Joy rests in things only from God, Psalm 51:12.
While we wait for Christ to come again, we do not despair. God has given us joy! Joy is essential to our faith; we don’t get very far without it, and we need it to keep our eyes on Jesus’s second return.
Even So, Come Lord Jesus!
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