JOY
The four Advent candles are a beautiful Christmas tradition. Each one has a special meaning reminding us to prepare our hearts in the weeks leading up to Christ's birth. When we focus on God and keep our minds on Him this holiday season, we will be able to rest in the perfect peace of the world.
Let's use the five candles of Advent to guide and prepare your hearts for the season in celebration of Jesus’ birth. Join us each week for a brief devotional time with a quick word, song, scripture writing and prayer being mindful of what is happening in the world today.
The Shepherds’ Candle - Joy
Christmas invites us to sow seeds of joy, to give from a place of love, expecting nothing in return.
But, if we’re honest, it can be easy to grow weary, can’t it? It can be easy to let the happenings in the news zap our joy as we "doomscroll" on our phones.
Daily, we pour ourselves into gift giving, meal-prepping, and serving our families. Sometimes, we wonder if anyone even notices. We may be missing someone or in a time of mourning.
And yet right there on the Advent wreath, the third candle represents Joy.
Christmas blessings, family gatherings, warm meals, lights and gifts all are a reminder of the goodness of God, who loves us and delights in us.
As wonderful as each gift is, they are really just a glimpse of His heart—ways for us to remember that Jesus Himself is the greatest gift of all.
No matter what happens in this life, you will have joy eternal because of the sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection of Jesus. In Him, your joy is complete.
Chorus:
Joy unspeakable joy
Overflowing well
No tongue can tell
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Joy unspeakable joy
Rises in my soul
Never lets me go
Directions:
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Find the "Joy" page in the downloaded document​
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Write the words to Psalm 40:16 around the border of the picture.
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Fill the letters "JOY" with words that describe God as our source of Joy. (see below)
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Throughout the week, jot down headlines or stories of sorrow in the empty spaces.
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Pray while coloring each space remembering God, his goodness and our source of joy.
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God shows His goodness as our:
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Helper
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Savior
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Provider
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Comforter
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Redeemer
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Healer
*About the downloads
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You only have to download the file once. This download includes the all of the images needed for each week.
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The coloring/doodling is a tool to help you focus as you pray. Does it help you"