Celebrate Recovery Weekly Encouragement 12-20-23

Third Week of Advent

Joy

Scripture: Isaiah 12:2-3 (NIV)
"Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord Himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation."
On this third week of Advent, we light the pink or rose-colored candle on the Advent wreath. This candle is called the "Shepherd’s Candle," and it symbolizes Joy.

God's Word anticipates the joy of salvation, a theme central to the Advent season. This joy is not giddy happiness built on circumstances, but a deep sense of joy rooted in the reality that God is in our midst. It is the joy of Salvation, the joy of the promise that God Himself has become our Salvation.

The scripture from Isaiah beautifully outlines this joy. It uses the image of drawing water from the wells of salvation – a picture of deep, life-giving refreshment. The joy offered to us in Christ does not depend on our circumstances but is like a wellspring that continues to refresh us.
As we light this candle of Joy, let us be reminded of the great joy that was given to us with the birth of Jesus Christ.

Father, as we light this third candle of Advent for joy, help us to experience the deep, abiding joy that comes only from You. May the joy of this season fill our hearts and homes as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Amen.

Brian Willems CADC1
Ministry Leader
Celebrate Recovery
New Life Community Dinuba

Pastor Mark will be offering communion this week!