This week as we get ready for the final Sunday in Advent and to celebrate Jesus’ birth, we are bringing you a moment of… to celebrate the reason for the season. Check back daily for new daily devotions, prayers, and inspiration.

The Christmas story tells of a time of great joy when Jesus was born. 

What does the word joy mean to you? How might you describe it to a child?

What words or phrases might describe that kind of joy? Walking on air, jumping for joy, excited, delight, cheerful, grinning ear-to-ear? Write some down. Say them out loud!

When is the last time you felt joy?

Joy describes how happy we are that God sent Jesus.

Jesus' birth brought joy to the world because the people were waiting for the Messiah who would save them. Mary, Joseph, some shepherds, and even heavenly angels were there, singing for joy that God's love came to earth as this baby boy in a manger! Enjoy the ways you bring this gift of a story to others.

All of creation celebrated Jesus’ birth!

Jesus brings joy like nothing else can – both then and now!

Joy is a condition that is beyond circumstance. Meaning: no matter if we are going through good times or challenging times, joy – which comes from God – is always a part of our life through God.

Share the joy of Christ.

Spread the news of Jesus’ birth with joy!

God the Creator who delights in you,

Jesus the Savior who is born for you,

and the lifegiving Spirit who shines on you,

bless you and keep you in love, hope, peace, and joy.

Amen.