Advent 3 Monday - Giving Joy

So this 3^rd week of Advent is the week for joy.  Want to give God joy today?  Here’s a sure fire way:

There is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!  Luke 15:7

Outside of the grace and forgiveness of God we are lost sinners. Every day we fall short of God’s ideal for us, in ways we act and in things we should do that we don’t.  It’s always good when we recognize our failure and God’s willingness to do something about it, and then to take action.

All of heaven rejoices when we turn away from what harms us and others and turn back to God for His love and forgiveness.

Many of us know the familiar words of this prayer of confession:

Most merciful God, I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone.  I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbours as myself.  I am truly sorry and I humbly repent.  For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on me and forgive me; that I may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name.  Amen

Jesus also told us this way to have joy and to give Him joy:

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.  John 15:9-11

Heavenly Father, in these ordinary days we pray to be people who are faithful to love You by obeying what You say is right and good to do.  We know that when we fail to do what needs doing, someone is harmed, whether we are aware of who that person is or not.  You see the big picture and so You guide us on a path that will be one of blessing for ourselves and others, and that ultimately is the path of joy.

Today we want Your joy to be in us and for that joy to be complete.  So fill us with Your Spirit so we walk in Your footsteps and complete the work You’ve given us to do.  Amen