Jumping for joy

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”

John 15:11

Jumping for joy means to be so ecstatic, you’re overcome with excitement and unable to contain yourself making you want to leap.

So many times, we allow our happiness to depend on our surroundings but Jesus wants to be the source of our joy saying in John 15:11, “that my joy be in you and that your joy may be complete.” The joy Jesus is speaking about comes from knowing Him and not allowing outside circumstances to rob us of this joy.

We are now entering into the third week of advent and this candle represents joy, which is often referred to as the “Shepherd’s Candle”. This is to remind us to reflect on the joy the shepherds experienced in that field so long ago. Luke 2:10-11 says, “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” They were so excited about what they had witnessed, they ran to see the baby and then hurried off to spread the word.

So, as we purchase our gifts, hosts our parties and are getting everything prepared for all the company we may have, let’s not get caught up in the busyness and forget why we are celebrating in the first place. May the joy of the Lord fill our hearts with gladness this season so others will see we are complete in Him.