Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You
Today marks the third Sunday of Advent, a perfect time to sing, “Go Tell It on the Mountain!” I’m not suggesting we lace up our hiking boots and scale a mountain! Let’s start right where we are — at ground zero — and let the JOY of Christ’s coming shine through us.
The third candle on the Advent wreath today is pink. It is lit on this third Sunday of Advent. Pink isn’t just a pretty color for baby announcements or celebratory ribbons. It represents being joy filled! The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I say rejoice.” That’s not just a casual suggestion — it’s a lifeline!
Now, let’s talk about joy statistics. Did you know children laugh around 400 times a day, while adults manage only about four chuckles? Ouch. Maybe it’s time we take a page from the little ones and let their boundless giggles refill our “joy banks.” After all, joy isn’t about circumstances — it’s about perspective.
When Paul wrote those encouraging “rejoice” words, he wasn’t lounging in comfort. In fact, he was in a cold, damp prison cell. Yet he knew the secret: “Emmanuel, God with us” – right in the middle of whatever we’re facing. Paul reminds us that joy doesn’t wait for perfect conditions — it thrives in the presence of God.
Let’s circle back to pink for a moment. Sure, it’s girly (I once scotch-taped a pink bow to my baby Staci’s bald head to make sure everyone knew she was a girl!). But pink also symbolizes survival and triumph. Think of the joy when someone announces, “I’m cancer-free!” Joy is often born from overcoming challenges, whether it’s chemo treatments or navigating the trials of life.
And how fitting that the pink candle also points us to the ultimate joy — a baby boy born in Bethlehem who changed the world. Paul’s life was no walk in the park, but he never stopped urging us to rejoice. Why? Because the joy of the Lord not only uplifts but anchors us in the unshakable truth that God is with us.
So, as the pink candle is lit this third Sunday of Advent, let’s double down on joy. Let’s rejoice and then rejoice some more, knowing that with God, all things are possible. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time to belt out “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart to stay!”