Theme of the Day: A Real Christmas Results In Great Joy
Multiple studies have proven that the holiday season exacerbates mental health issues. For some, the pressure to have “a perfect Christmas” can be overwhelming. For others, their loneliness is amplified. Such people need a real Christmas, one that results in great joy. But joy is not the same thing as happiness. It is infinitely better. Happiness is an emotion. Joyfulness is a condition. Happiness comes from your circumstances. Joyfulness comes from Christ assuring you of his abiding love and your glorious future. Therefore, happiness—“holiday cheer”—is fleeting. Joyfulness is enduring.
The historic Christian Church gave Latin titles to each Sunday. They titled the Third Sunday in Advent “Gaudete,” which means “Rejoice!” As we reach the midway point of Advent, we ask Christ to empower us to do just that.
Luke 3:7-18
Zephaniah 3:14-17
Philippians 4:4-7
Psalm 130B
305 – Lift Up Your Heads, You Mighty Gates
324 – O Lord, How Shall I Meet You
524 – Rejoice, the Lord Is King
493 – Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers
307 – When the King Shall Come Again
Prayer of the Day: Hear our prayers, Lord Jesus Christ, and come with the good news of your mighty deliverance. Drive the darkness from our hearts, and fill us with your light; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you. Alleluia.