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Advent is often marked by the lighting of candles with the third candle symbolizing JOY.
"And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” - Luke 2: 10 -11
“At first sight, joy seems to be connected with being different. When you receive a compliment or win an award, you experience the joy of not being the same as others. You are faster, smarter, or more beautiful, and it is that difference that brings you joy. But such joy is very temporary. True joy is hidden where we are the same as other people: fragile and mortal. It is the joy of belonging to the human race. It is the joy of being with others as a friend, a companion, a fellow-traveler. This is the joy of Jesus, who is Emmanuel: God-with-us.”
– Henri Nouwen, Bread for the Journey
Dear God, Joy is what makes life worth living, but joy seems hard to find. I complain that my life is sorrowful and depressing. What then brings the joy I so much desire? You invite me to choose joy. Help me to choose to trust that what happened, painful as it may be, holds a promise. Let your loving voice be my guide. Amen.
(Prayer adapted from With Open Hands by Henri Nouwen) | 
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