The Advent of Joy
Week 4 of Advent
“Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who dwell in it! Let the rivers clap their hands; let the hills sing for joy together before the Lord, for he comes…” (Psalm 98:7-9)
It’s week 4 of Advent! This week’s emphasis is on Joy. Here’s a family worship guide to help you celebrate.
Week 4 - Joy (Family Worship Guide)
Read: Isaac Watts originally wrote the song “Joy to the World” as a reflection on Psalm 98, which shows all creation rejoicing because the Lord will come to set all things right! And when he finally comes, in the birth of Jesus, we see joy flowing into this world like a river. Even John the Baptist leaped for joy in the womb of Elizabeth, because he knew he was in the presence of God incarnate! So as we celebrate the first Advent of Christ, let’s celebrate with gladness and joy!
Read the following passages:
Psalm 98:4-9
Luke 1:39-45
Watch this short video together:
Ask the following questions:
How does Jesus bring true and lasting joy?
How is the joy of the Lord better than any other earthly joy?
What excites you the most as you think about Jesus’ first coming? What about his second coming?
Pray (spend some time praying together)
Sing (close with a song, either the one below or another Christmas carol!):
Bonus:
Here’s a helpful video on how to survive and thrive during holiday conflict.
“For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” (Luke 1:44)