Third Sunday of Advent: Joy

Where will you find joy this Advent Season? The third week of Advent asks us to focus on the theme of joy. We all want more joy in our lives. We are hungry for it, but it can be elusive, especially in this complicated world. Joy is deeply connected to what matters most to us – our faith in God, our loved ones, our deepest passions and dreams. Because joy is so tied to the things that matter most to us, it’s not tough to understand how sorrow might be connected to joy as they weave a dance throughout our lives.  We love the people we love, and then we experience the loss of those loved ones. We seek God, and yet we struggle with our faith. We try to achieve good things in the world, and then we experience disappointments. This profound connection between joy and sorrow is exemplified in Jesus’ life, as he came to bring good news, but also suffered. The Christian story of His ultimate triumph over death provides a great source of joy and can encourage us to focus on practicing joy in our own lives. In practicing joy during Advent, seek what matters most.

The third candle of the Advent wreath symbolizes joy and is called the “Shepherd’s Candle.” In the story of Christ’s birth, the angels brought tidings of great joy to the shepherds watching over their flocks at night, so the candle represents their joyful expectations of seeing the Christ-child in Bethlehem. 

Why is joy the third Sunday in Advent?

As we approach Christmas, we remember the story of the angels, who according to scripture announced Jesus’ birth as “good news of great joy.” We are invited during Advent to adopt a joyful mindset. Joy is powerful and points us toward what matters most. Because of its powerful positivity, joy can sustain us and our relationships with others.

“He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord…” Luke 1:14-16

The Weeks of Advent

The Sundays of Advent have powerful themes for reflection. They are aspirational and operational. We can choose to pursue joy and practice engaging joyfully with others by becoming more present and connecting to what matters most. The story of Christmas offers hope, and we can engage hopefully to make the world a better place. We have the power to contribute to a more peaceful world, but we have to start with ourselves. In the same way throughout Advent, we can learn to understand ourselves as beloved so we can become better at offering love to others. Each week of Advent provides an opportunity to engage these themes in our prayers, practices, and daily lives.  

The First Sunday of Advent – Hope

The Second Sunday of Advent – Peace

The Third Sunday of Advent – Joy

The Fourth Sunday of Advent – Love

Reflection – Advent Joy

• Where do your joys come from this Advent season? 
• What beliefs support joyful thoughts and feelings?
• What actions do you need to take today to encourage more joy in your life?
• How can you encourage joy in the lives of others?