Advent: A Time of Joy
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (NIV)
When was the last time God did an extraordinary thing in your life? Are you waiting for God to do something amazing?
In the reading today, the shepherds probably couldn’t wait for morning to come. Night was a dangerous time for sheep. They might wander off in the darkness, and more predators hunt at night. So these low-paid workers eagerly waited for the early morning sun to make things easier for them. Instead, they experienced something totally unexpected and really big: first, an angel appeared and announced to them joyful news about a newborn Savior, and then a sky full of angels praised God. Overwhelmed with joy, they ran to meet this wonderful baby, and then they spread the word, glorifying and praising God. God had changed everything!
Maybe God did something really big in your life, like answer a prayer in a huge way. Maybe you were going through a really tough time and an unexpected blessing came just at the right moment. When we can point to something amazing God did, we’re awestruck and filled with praise for God.
But maybe that hasn’t been your experience. Maybe when someone asks you about your day, you respond with, “Nothing special.” And yet, God is at work, even when we don’t always see it. We don’t always expect God to show up and bless us, but we should, because that’s what God does. Maybe it’s a small thing, like a friend saying something kind when you really need it. Maybe it’s a beautiful early morning sunrise. What has God done today that brought you joy? What makes you want to glorify and praise him? Look for God’s blessings and anticipate that he will do something. He always does!
Prayer
God in the highest heavens, thank you for all your blessings. Help us to be on the lookout for the ways that you are working in our lives and in the world. Help us walk in joy during the weeks of Advent, as we wait and prepare for Jesus’ coming. We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen.Related Resources
Ron VandenBurg
Senior Producer of Children’s Ministry at ReFrame Ministries
Ron VandenBurg joined the ReFrame Ministries team in 2014. He plans and develops projects specifically for the spiritual formation of children. Before coming to ReFrame, Ron taught middle-school for 27 years. Ron completed a M. Ed. degree in Teaching, Learning and Development at Brock University. Ron and Rachel have three fantastic adult children and one grandchild and reside in Ontario.