Introduction
The third candle of Advent is joy —Faith opens the door to joy. Our joy doesn’t depend on circumstances but flows from knowing the Giver of all good things. Every believer receives this joy of knowing they are loved, redeemed, and never alone.
Reflection
Have you ever had a need that seemed impossible to meet, only for a door to suddenly open and your need to be met? That’s who God is: the great Giver who continually provides for our lives and souls. Even the breath in our lungs is His gift that should be treasured.
As a family, we have seen this in our own lives — especially during our move to the North East of England. With so many unknowns, we handed our long list of needs to God — and He delivered! The house, the job, the schools, the community, God came through when we had no way of coming through for ourselves. So yes, I have encountered the grace-giver who never fails to disappoint!
All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me
Thomas O. Chisholm
Do I always get what I want? Not always. Sometimes it’s hard when my desires aren’t fulfilled. But I’ve learned to trust my Papa — knowing He sees what I don’t. If I don’t have something, it’s because He has something better. So I wait, with joy.
Scripture Reading
Psalm 16
Family Reflection
- What blessings has God given our family this year?
- How can we choose joy even when things don’t go our way?
Food for Thought
Joy is not the absence of pain; it’s the presence of Jesus. This week, let every act of gratitude remind you that the greatest joy was born in a manger.
Family Activity
Make a “Joy Jar.” Each family member writes one thing they are thankful for or one way they’ve seen God’s goodness this week. Read them aloud together on Christmas morning.
