We have spent some time observing Advent this year at Lumber in my Minivan. The lit candles of the advent wreath symbolize Jesus’ coming in a dark world. Each candle represents a different meaning.

On the third Sunday of advent, we light the shepherd’s candle. The shepherd’s candle symbolizes joy, specifically, the shepherd’s joy in announcing the birth of Jesus. According to Crosswalks, “To the shepherd’s great joy, the angels announced that Jesus came for humble, unimportant people like them, too. “

The associated Scriptures are Luke 2:10-11: “And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

As we prepare our hearts and minds for Christmas, let’s radiate the joy of Christ so others may see it, too.