Advent 3 - Joy
This is the third Sunday of Advent and the candle we light today is for Joy. This candle is pink – a lighter colour than the dark blue or purple of the other candles in the wreath. This is because Joy brings light to the world. As we listen to the preaching of John the Baptist in our Bible stories this month, we can get pretty worried about the world. Joy helps us remember the good things that are happening as we work toward a world full of Hope, Peace, and Love – the kind of world that God dreams for us.
There are lots of examples of joy in the Christmas story. The angels bring joy to the shepherds in the field when they sing about the news of Jesus’ birth. The shepherds are filled with joy when they see the baby and run to tell everyone about it. The angels and the shepherds can’t keep the joy to themselves, they need to spread it around. How can you spread joy to others? How can you make someone who is feeling sad or afraid feel joy?
Christmas is a time when we are usually full of joy. What are some of the things that bring you joy or make you happy at this time of year?
Response Activity Ideas
Joy Ornament
Gather 2 pieces of paper (14x14cm) to try making these Christmas bells. Add holly with pieces of green paper (6x6cm).
Spread JOY with a card
Make a card to give someone to bring some joy to their day!
Print the template for the JOY letters or design your own open font. Fill in the letters with patterns and designs, then cut them out to decorate the front of a card. (Alternatively, print out the Joy template directly onto cardstock and decorate.) Inside the card, write a message to bring a smile to someone’s face and send it to them!
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Illustrated Ministry Advent Package – Week 3: To Practice Joy
Have you ever made a gratitude journal before? How about a ‘joy’ journal? This week’s activity on pg. 24 encourages us to take time to remember the joy in our lives. Cut out the scrolls on pg. 27, record the year at the top, then write down the joys you have experienced this year. Using the toothpicks provided in your kit, or other sticks, roll up the scroll and hang on your tree (ribbon and string provided). Save it for next year with your other decorations and unroll to remember these joys again!