Good morning! Our Advent devotional for today comes to us from David Nolan, who serves as our Associate Vice Chancellor for Development in University Advancement. I was sharing with one of David’s former colleagues over the weekend that he had written an Advent devotional on JOY this year, and her response could not have been kinder. She shared with me that David genuinely cares for others and is as intentional about celebrating moments of success as he is in supporting others during more difficult moments in life. And to that end, there is JOY in knowing that you can always count on someone who deeply and genuinely cares. My own experience of David and his kind heart would suggest the same. As you reflect on his words for us today, may they fill you with a spirit of JOY in the days to come as we light the JOY candle during this season of Advent. -Rev. Todd Boling, University Chaplain
Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.’”
As we enter into the season of Advent, we are called to reflect on the anticipation and hope that Jesus’ birth brings into the world. Advent is a time of waiting, but it’s not a passive waiting—it’s an active, expectant waiting, rooted in the joy that Christ brings to our lives. The joy of the Lord isn’t based on circumstances or fleeting emotions. It is a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing that God is with us, and that He is fulfilling His promises.
The joy that the Advent season brings is described beautifully in the words of the angel to the shepherds: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11, NIV). The arrival of Jesus Christ is the good news that the world has been waiting for. His birth brings joy not just to a few, but to all people. It is a joy that transcends time, place, and situation—a joy that comes from knowing that God’s love is made flesh in the person of Jesus.
In this season, we often find ourselves surrounded by expectations, busy schedules, and material demands. It can be easy to lose sight of the true meaning of joy in the midst of all the noise. But the joy that Jesus brings is not dependent on how well we decorate, how many gifts we give, or even how perfect our gatherings are. True joy, the joy of Advent, is found in the quiet moments of reflection and worship. It is found in recognizing that the Savior has come to be with us, to save us, and to offer us peace.
This joy does not leave us when the Christmas season ends; it remains with us because it is rooted in the eternal promise of God’s presence. It is the joy of knowing that no matter what happens in this life, we are loved by God, redeemed by Christ, and sealed with the Holy Spirit. This joy is unshakable.
As we celebrate Advent and prepare our hearts for Christmas, may we remember that true joy is found in the knowledge of Christ’s presence with us. Let us choose joy today, knowing that God’s promises are trustworthy and His love never fails.
Let us pray.
Lord Jesus, thank You for the joy that Your birth brings to the world. In this Advent season, help us to focus on the deep and abiding joy that comes from knowing You. When our hearts grow weary or distracted, remind us of the hope and peace that Your presence brings. May we reflect Your joy to those around us, and may we live each day in the light of Your love. We thank You for Your gift of salvation, and we pray that we would share this joy with others throughout this season and beyond. In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.