Behold: Joy for All Peoples

Speaker: Pastor Shu-Ling Lee

Scripture: Luke 2:1-20

INTRODUCTION: What sparks “joy” for you?

What is advent? Why do we observe the advent season?

“Advent marks the beginning of the Church calendar. It’s the start of a new year for the Christian. It reminds us that fresh starts & new beginnings are not products of our willpower, but expressions of God’s grace in Christ”.—Rich Villodas Jr.

“The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect, and who look forward to something greater to come.”—Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Hymn: “Joy To The World”

How & Where can we find JOY in this difficult, polarizing world?

1. Joy is found in Jesus, the Humble King (v.1-8)

2. We have Good News of Great Joy, but will we choose to receive it daily? (v. 9-16)

3. Joy is meant to be shared (v.17-20)

Conclusion

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.—Philippians 4:4-8