Preparing For Advent:
The Shepherd's Candle/ The Candle of Joy

Week 3 - December 11th

This third week of the Advent Season fills us with joy and awe, as we recall the excitement the shepherds felt as the angels of God informed them of the Savior's birth. The Father God chose these tenderhearted, humble caretakers to be the very first ones to bow at the tiny feet of the Newborn King. Then He appointed these humble hearts to be His messengers, spreading the word that the Messiah had been born.

God invites us, the "poor in Spirit", to come into His presence and worship Him, as the Shepherds did that night. As we worship Jesus, our joy overflows, and we then reflect the light of God's grace to one another.

The pink or rose colored candle symbolizes the act of sharing Christ with others. Little did those shepherds of long ago realize that one day the newborn baby would promise to tend them, His flock, and gather them in His arms. Jesus promises to carry us close to His heart, and to gently lead us today. Jesus truly is our Good Shepherd.

We have so much to be thankful for as Children of God. May we be filled with joy as we remember the night the Shepherds heard the news of the birth of Christ. We praise You, Lord, and we rejoice in the great gift of Your precious Son. Thank You for the privilege of praising and following You.

         Alison