Joy-Full
As we continue our Advent journey, this week we will discuss the gift of joy. Godly joy can and often does transcend circumstances. In fact, joy is often experienced in the midst of trying circumstances.
For this week’s discussion, read the passages below several times with a disposition of openness. In other words, don’t concern yourself so much with the correct interpretation of what the writers intended, as important as that is. Rather, simply let the Word (logos) that gives life to words speak to you as it pleases the Word to speak? Makes sense? If not, don’t worry. We will attempt to make sense of it together!
Psalm 100
1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.3 Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name.5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Luke 1:46b-55
46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord,47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Zoom Info:
Join Men’s Bible Study Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81210234586?pwd=Tm6ieMrfYwNFIOZoI286zaqzLsf8FC.1
Meeting ID: 812 1023 4586
Passcode: 626607
Join Women’s Bible Study Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82089397014?pwd=RLdWePy2g5vFwl2bPdbMJhsgMvn47d.1
Meeting ID: 820 8939 7014
Passcode: 473712