This sermon reflects on the true nature of joy revealed in Jesus’ first coming, drawing from Luke 1:39-45 and Luke 2:8-20. It contrasts the fleeting, circumstance-based happiness of our world with the lasting, jubilant joy that comes from Christ alone. Through Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and the shepherds’ encounter with the angels, we see that Jesus’ presence produces a deep, contagious joy rooted not in ease or comfort, but in God’s promises. This joy causes John to leap in the womb, Elizabeth to prophesy, Mary to sing, and shepherds to worship and proclaim the good news. This message will challenge listeners to ask whether they are chasing temporary happiness or living in Christ’s enduring joy, and whether that joy is evident to others. In this “time between times,” believers are called to receive Jesus’ joy and share it, becoming visible witnesses of hope, even amid sorrow, because Christ is with us and Christ will come again.

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STUDY GUIDE

1.  Read Luke 1:39–45. What stands out to you about John’s response to Jesus’ presence, even while still in the womb? What does this teach us about the nature of true joy?

2.  How does the sermon distinguish between happiness and joy? In what ways have you experienced this in your own life?

3.  Mary and Elizabeth both faced uncertainty and difficulty. Why do you think joy, not fear or despair, is their response?

4.  Read Luke 2:8-20. Why is it significant that the announcement of Jesus’ birth comes to shepherds? What does this reveal about who the joy of Jesus is for?

5.  The sermon describes joy as contagious. How do we see that played out in both Scripture passages?

6.  What does it mean practically for your presence to be “a presence of the joy of Jesus” to others?

7.  Reflect on Galatians 6:9-10 and Psalm 30:5. How do these passages shape our understanding of joy during seasons of hardship?

8.  Are you currently chasing happiness rooted in circumstances, or resting in the lasting joy of Christ? How can you tell?

9.  Who might God be inviting you to share His joy with this Advent season, and what might that look like in everyday life?

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

Galatians 6:9-10
Psalm 30:5b
Luke 1:39-55
Luke 2:8-20
Philippians 4:11-13
James 1:2-4