ZPCBlog

Editor's Note

About the author: Bryce is a senior at Carmel High School and volunteers in student ministries almost every Sunday. In his free time he enjoys working on spreadsheets, 3D printing and working with the school’s robotics team as their public relations leader.

About this post: This blog post is part of a series of daily devotionals where we are exploring traditional Advent themes of hope, joy, peace, and love. To sign up to receive text notification of these posts, text zpc advent to 39970. Advent booklets are also available at the ZPC Welcome Center. We welcome your comments and questions each day.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 11:1-9

J-O-Y, that three letter word that appears over a hundred times in the bible. However, it might be intimidating for one to find it and grab hold. One thing that has always helped me find joy is to make a list of things I'd like to complete throughout the day. The sense of accomplishment I get when checking off a box or completing a task helps me to power through the rest of the day with a positive attitude.

However, joy is not one-size-fits-all. Since everyone has different pasts, different experiences, and different reactions, only you can know what makes you joyful. Therefore take time to reflect on the things that you do since it might give you a better idea of what to be thankful for and what gives you joy.

In the scripture Isaiah 11:1-9, the prophet Isaiah mentions animals that stop their primitive ways and lay down. We need to keep this in mind throughout our busy days – it's okay to take a rest or a break. The world will keep whizzing by and we can rejoin it when ready.

Thought of the day: Rejoice in the moment for God has given us a multitude of opportunities but we must stop and make the most of these opportunities for without his grace we have failed.

Activity:

Create a list of your goals for today, cross or check them off as you go. Here are a couple examples:

• Finish making this list
• Drink water
• Help someone else
• Finish that project

Prayer:

Lord,
Thank you for all the opportunities you give each day. Big or small, each one gives us give us a glimpse at your work and allows us to be with your creation. May we remember to be thankful and joyful for all you have made.

Amen

Share