🕯️ Third Sunday of Advent – December 14, 2025 - "Joy That Cannot Be Taken Away"

On this Third Sunday of Advent, we reflect upon the radiant theme of Joy—a joy that rises above circumstances, outlasts sorrow, and flows from a heart anchored in Christ. Advent joy is not the fleeting happiness the world often promises; it is the deep and abiding gladness that springs from God’s presence. In John 16:22, Jesus speaks to His disciples on the night before His suffering and tells them, “You will have sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy.” These words echo through centuries of Christian experience, assuring us that our joy is not fragile, temporary, or dependent upon the conditions of life. It is a joy secured by the victory of Christ Himself.

The world is full of voices that claim to offer joy, yet so many of them lead only to disappointment. People often chase joy in possessions, achievements, relationships, or temporary experiences. While these things may bring a moment of delight, they cannot sustain the soul. Many find themselves smiling on the outside while carrying quiet burdens within. Life’s hardships—loss, illness, uncertainty, discouragement—often press upon us with great weight. Yet into this reality, Advent announces a timeless truth: true joy is not found in what we have, but in who has us. Joy begins when we rest in the assurance that the Savior has come, that He is with us now, and that He will come again.

Christ’s promise of joy is grounded in His resurrection. When He said, “I will see you again,” He declared that sorrow would not have the final word. This is the foundation of Christian joy: Jesus has conquered death, defeated the darkness, and secured eternal hope for all who believe. Because of this, our joy remains even when life is difficult. It is the quiet strength that steadies the heart in trials, the gentle warmth that comforts us in grief, and the unwavering confidence that nothing can separate us from the love of God. This is why Jesus said that no one can rob us of this joy—it is safeguarded by His everlasting victory.

Advent calls us to prepare our hearts for this joy by lifting our eyes from earthly concerns to the glory of Christ. When we focus too intently on our struggles, we risk losing sight of God’s goodness. But when we turn our attention to His promises, gratitude begins to rise, and joy follows close behind. Even small moments—answered prayers, acts of kindness, the beauty of creation, the comfort of God’s presence—become reminders of His faithfulness. Joy grows when we recognize that every good gift is from Him and that nothing in this world can overshadow the light of His love.

This season also urges us to share joy with others. Just as Christ brings joy into our lives, He calls us to be bearers of joy to those who are weary, discouraged, or forgotten. A joyful spirit can uplift a troubled heart. A sincere smile can brighten a dark moment. A gentle word can rekindle hope. When we express joy through compassion, generosity, and Christlike love, we become instruments of God’s grace in a world longing for encouragement. Joy shared is joy multiplied.

As we light the third candle of Advent—the candle often called Gaudete, meaning “Rejoice!”—let its warm glow remind us that joy shines brightest in the places where sorrow once lived. Christ has come, Christ is with us, and Christ will come again. Let that truth fill your soul with gladness. And as we celebrate this season, let our joy move us to action. Reach out to someone who carries a heavy burden, offer comfort to the discouraged, and remember those who struggle to provide for their families. Consider donating to your local food pantry, for by doing so, you extend the joy of Christ to others. As Jesus teaches in Matthew 25:45 (NLT), what we do for the least of these, we do for Him.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”