12/15/24-12/21/24: ADVENT READINGS:

Read Isaiah 9:6-7; John 1:19-34; Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Philippians 2:1-11.

Third Sunday of Advent – JOY

a time for joy - And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. Luke 1:14

The Christmas season us a time for joy and celebration. In the hamlet of Bethlehem, God gave the world a priceless gift: the Christ child. We, as believers, can rejoice. God, through His Son, has offered spiritual abundance and salvation to the world. 

During our earthly existence, of course, we will all have trials and troubles - but as believers we are secure. God has promised us peace, joy, and eternal life. So, as we join in the celebration of this sacred holiday, let us rejoice in God's most glorious gift: a baby born in a manger - a baby who forever changed the world. And then, with hope on our hearts and praise on our lips, let the celebration begin!

Jesus: Blessed Be the Name, Freeman/Smith, ©2006, p47

Sovereign God, thank You for the greatest gift ever given to mankind - the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we focus on the incredible preciousness of that gift, may we rejoice in Your abundant grace and mercy. In Christ's Name, Amen. 

CONTINUE WITH WEEKLY READINGS AND DEVOTIONALS