Scripture and Sermon SlidesDecember 15, 2013

Gospel Reading

Luke 1:46b-55

46 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord

47 and my spirit rejoices

in God my Savior,

Let us hold unswervingly

to the hope we profess,

for he who promised is faithful.

48 for he has been mindful

of the humble state

of his servant.

From now on all generations

will call me blessed,

49 for the Mighty One has done

great things for me—

holy is his name.

50 His mercy extends

to those who fear him,

from generation to generation.

51 He has performed

mighty deeds with his arm;

he has scattered those who are

proud in their inmost thoughts.

52 He has brought down rulers

from their thrones

but has lifted up the humble.

53 He has filled the hungry

with good things

but has sent the rich

away empty.

54 He has helped his servant Israel,

remembering to be merciful

55 to Abraham and his

descendants forever,

just as he promised

our ancestors.”

JOY

Luke 1: 47-55

Third Sunday of AdventDecember 15 , 2013Rev. John W. Landis

JOY

• “My Soul’s so happy that I can’t sit down!”• When was the last time you felt that joyful– or true joy of any kind?

• Joy seems to be missing for the most part in our world

The Greek

• Algalliomai – to Leap for Joy– used of both the baby in Elizabeth’s womb and

Mary

The Greek

• Chara – Joy– Charis – grace– Charizomai – give freely– Charisma – gift– Eucharisto – to give thanks

Joy is a gift from God!

Joy

• Joy is given in grace• We can’t seek it• We don’t deserve it• It only happens when God gives it

We must be open to the experience!

What brings you Joy?

Joy Requires Response

• In other words we need to Rejoice• Worship God• Be Happy to be in Worship– It is not a chore to be here on Sunday morning

Be Someone Else’s Joy

• Give freely in grace– No particular reason

• Bring Joy to someone who cannot pay us back• Give your gift in love

Joy is a Cycle

• We bring Joy to someone• We are blessed with Joy

Joy is something you share!

That is what Christmas is about!

• God wanted us to be joyful• God gave us a gift• That gift is eternal life and relationship with

Him, the one who loves us and wants us to have Joy

• The Gift came in the form of a baby

What can I do?

• Slow down– Enjoy– Make room in the inn of your heart

• Give generously of your joy

• Visit the Child in your heart

“My Soul Glorifies the Lord and my Spirit Rejoices in God my Savior”

How about yours?