From Zephaniah 3:14-15:  “Sing aloud, O daughter Zion; shout, O Israel!  Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem!  The Lord has taken away the judgments against you, He has turned away your enemies.  The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear disaster no more.”

Looking inward, changing selves

Repenting, reversing course

Searching for life’s cherished peace

Joy spreads from Bethlehem’s source

 

Reading, praying, reflecting

Preparing our minds and hearts

Beaming starlight in dark times

Joy brightens, world seeks restart

 

Rejoicing always, Lord is near

Restoring fortunes, Prince of Peace

Renewing tomorrow’s hope

Joy transcends Father’s new lease

 

Trusting in God’s promises

Waiting with welcoming grace

Singing praises, justice calls

Joy blossoms in this birthplace

 

Proclaiming mercy-filled peace

Glowing, rising midnight sun

Igniting life’s dormant faith

Joy worships birth of God’s Son

 

You are invited to join in prayer:  Lord God, your love and mercy promise hope, joy, and peace.  During this season of Advent, open our hearts in preparation to receive our Savior.  Amen.

“Joy to the World” is frequently sung during the Advent and Christmas season.  Written in 1719 by English minister and hymn writer, Isaac Watts, this hymn has been a favorite for well over 100 years in North America.