DAY EIGHTEEN

Scripture~ Luke 2:10

“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

My Lesson~ Bella is happy as a clam following me around. If I sit, she’s next to me. If I’m cooking she’s in the kitchen right there watching. If I’m working in a room, she’s here with me. BUT… when, with her keen hearing, a car door shuts and then the kitchen door handle juggles, she runs with complete abandon and joy. As the door opens, she circles around Glenn's feet and as he reaches down, she leaps up into her Daddy’s arms as he sings an old 1960's song to her, “Hey, baby… I wanna know, if you’ll be my girl…”

Oh, such joy! It brings a smile to my face every time she greets him when he returns home from work. Unfortunately, I think that kind of joy is something we can tend to grow out of as the worries and cares of this world begin to weigh us down. When was the last time you experienced that kind of joy -- sweet abandon? You see, I’m reminded that her joy isn’t contingent on her surroundings, the weather, or how she’s feeling, how her kibble tasted, or anything like that. Her greatest joy is being held and loved by her Dad.

God invites me to this gift of joy. He’s given the greatest gift to me, His son, whose birthday we will be celebrating in a little over a week and a half. Even today, as I continue to prepare in my heart for Christmas, may I live in the moment, and find His joy.   

Prayer~ Thank you, Lord for Advent. For the reminders of hope, peace, and joy, love and most of all Christ. May I not get so caught up in Christmas “events” that I forget the WHO this season is all about. Christ is the Lord and the Savior of whom the angel long ago said would be the reason for “great joy”. Help me find my joy in You today.

In His name, Amen.

Invitation~ Sing, “Joy To the World” or listen to it. What words or sayings catch your attention? Embrace joy as you remember… “the Lord is come

Let earth receive her king

Let every heart prepare Him room”

Finally, ask yourself, how will this look in my life today?