Advent StudyNäide

Joy: a feeling of great pleasure and happiness

Nehemiah 8:10b states: “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Consistently through the Old and New Testament, we receive reason for celebration, happiness and joy from the Lord.

Today’s Scripture reading highlights the first encounter between Jesus and John the Baptist. How incredible that the presence of Jesus was known to John even within the womb! And how poignant to also see the Holy Spirit fill Elizabeth with joy. As soon as Mary entered, carrying the Christ in her womb, joy filled the space.

Elizabeth showered Mary with blessings, noting the blessedness of her faith and the privilege she experienced in bearing God’s. What a moment of connection, adoration, and affirmation between two women who loved the Lord; a beautiful depiction of JOY shared between believers.

In a culture ripe with complaint, negativity, and depression, it is a gift to gather and celebrate with joy over one another and what God has done.

• Mary is described as “blessed” several times throughout these verses. How would you identify your life as blessed?
• When did you last share joy and blessings with other believers?

Prayer: Lord, may I be someone who leaps for joy at the sound of your name. Allow me to be tender to your presence and filled with the Holy Spirit. Allow me to recognize joy that is from you.