Sermon: “The Joy That Shines in the Darkness”    

Scripture:  Matt. 11:2-11

Newsletter:

As we enter the Third Sunday of Advent, we turn our hearts toward joy—not the kind the world promises, which comes and goes with circumstances, but the deep, steady joy that Christ brings. Advent joy is rooted in God’s faithfulness. It is the joy of knowing that even in seasons of waiting, God is at work. It is the joy of Mary who sang, “My soul magnifies the Lord,” not because her life was easy, but because she trusted the One who holds the future. This joy is not loud or flashy; often it arrives quietly, like a candle flame in the dark, reminding us that light always overcomes darkness.

As a church family, may we rediscover this sacred joy together. Look for it in the kindness of a neighbor, the laughter of children, the generosity that fills this season, and the peace that only Jesus can give. Even if life feels heavy or uncertain, remember that Christ’s joy meets us right where we are and lifts our spirits. My prayer for each of you is that this Advent would rekindle the joy of salvation in your heart and strengthen your hope for the year ahead. Rejoice—Christ is near!

Pastor’s Wish List:

This coming Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent, and we are working our way around the various candles of the Advent Wreath. We have seen that the first candle represents hope, and the second candle represents peace. This coming Sunday, we come to the third candle on the wreath.

Now you may have noticed that one of the outside candles is a different color from the other three. There are three purple candles around the outside of the wreath and one pink candle. The pink candle is the third candle of advent which represents joy.

Come! Let us worship the Lord together. “Good news of great joy!”