On the Third Sunday of Advent we light the Candle of Joy. Often this is a pink (or rose) candle, while the other three candles of Advent are purple. Some theologians explain that we have a pink candle because the Third Sunday of Advent anticipates the joy of the Christmas Celebration. The deep purple candles, which we light the other three Sundays of Advent, are the color of repentance, reflection and preparation. On the Third Sunday of Advent we get a glimpse of the joy that will visit us on Christmas.

Yesterday was certainly a joyful day for Faith UMC! We celebrated our Christmas Pageant Sunday with our youth and children leading the service. There were moments of laughter and many smiles. The children brought a lot of joy into our sanctuary and into our hearts and reminded us what Christmas really means. The joy even spilled over from worship into our fellowship time. It was very fitting that our Christmas Pageant took place on the Sunday we lit the Candle of Joy!

What joy are you experiencing in your life right now? What joy do you hope will visit you at Christmas? What 'glad tidings of great joy' are you feeling called to share this Advent / Christmas?