Today is the third Sunday of the season of Advent. As we shared with you, our word advent is based on an ancient Latin word which means the arrival of a notable person or thing. During this advent season we celebrate the emanate arrival of the most notable person to ever enter the world, Jesus Christ. Jesus is Immanuel, which means, God with us. In the person of Jesus God took on flesh and entered into the world so we could each know and experience relationship with him.
Jesus brought four gifts with him into the world. He brought with him hope, peace, joy, and love. We celebrate remember and celebrate these gifts with the lighting of each of these four candles. Last week we lit the candle of peace. Today we light the third candle as we celebrate the advent of Jesus’ joy.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. –Romans 15:13