Complete Joy

Opening Scripture

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” —John 15:11

Introduction

This week, as we light the Candle of Joy, let us turn our hearts toward the true and lasting joy found in Christ. This joy transcends circumstances, grounded in His love, forgiveness, and redemption.  Together, let us immerse ourselves in Scripture and prayer, inviting His presence to fill our souls. As we reflect on the good news of great joy, may our hearts overflow with gratitude and our lives echo His grace.

Reflection

The Candle of Joy, often called the Gaudete Candle, from the Latin word meaning “rejoice.” It shines brightly, symbolizing the joy that Christ brings into the world. Advent is a time of waiting and anticipation, and this joy is not fleeting or circumstantial but rooted in the eternal truth of Christ’s coming.

Jesus said, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11). This joy surpasses the highs and lows of life, grounded in the love and presence of God. St. Augustine beautifully wrote, “The Christian should be an alleluia from head to foot.” This joy is cultivated by abiding in Christ—through prayer, Scripture, worship, and surrender.

Christmas is a joyful celebration of gratitude, honor, and feasting—a time to reflect on God’s profound intervention in history: the incarnation of Jesus, who gave His life on the cross for our forgiveness, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. May we carry this celebration in our hearts each day, rejoicing in His infinite love and grace.

Pope John Paul II reminds us, “The joy of God is the joy of forgiveness.” Advent joy springs from the realization that Christ’s birth brought forgiveness and redemption to a broken world.

As we light the Candle of Joy, we celebrate the good news of great joy first proclaimed to shepherds and extended to all people. This joy, rooted in forgiveness and redemption found in Christ, calls us to lift our hearts in grateful hallelujahs to the Lord. May this joy deepen as we abide in Him, reflecting His love and grace to the world.

Question for Reflection

What are practical ways you can share the joy of Christ with others this Advent season?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of joy that is found in Your Son, Jesus. Teach us to abide in Him, that our joy may be complete. Help us to reflect this joy to others, spreading the light of Christ in our words, actions, and love. May Your joy overflow in our hearts, drawing others closer to You. Amen.

Additional Resources

• Reading: The Confessions of St. Augustine (focus on his reflections on joy in God).

• Music: Handel’s Messiah

• Reflection: Crossing the Threshold of Hope by Pope John Paul II.

Deus Caritas Est