Week 3 — The Candle of Joy (Advent) — Daily Reflections & Prayers
Week 3 — The Candle of Joy
In Week 3 of Advent, we light the rose candle — the Candle of Joy, also known as the Shepherd’s Candle. This Sunday is called Gaudete, which means “rejoice.” The waiting is nearly over, and the light of Christ is near. Our hearts are called to joy, even amidst life’s challenges, for the Lord is close at hand.
Reflection Tip: Let each day’s prayer open you to the quiet joy of God’s presence — the joy that comes not from things, but from His nearness.
Day 15 — Rejoice in Hope
Reflection: Joy springs from hope — the quiet confidence that God’s promises endure. Even in trials, we can rejoice because our hearts are held in His love. True joy is not fleeting; it is rooted in trust.
Prayer: Lord, fill me with joy that no darkness can overcome, the joy of knowing You are near. Amen.
Light a Candle for Hopeful JoyDay 16 — Joy of the Shepherds
Reflection: The shepherds were simple, ordinary people, yet they were the first to hear the Good News. God’s joy comes to humble hearts ready to receive Him. Let us rejoice in that same simplicity and wonder.
Prayer: Lord, help me to find joy in humble places and to glorify You in all things. Amen.
Light a Candle for Joyful PraiseDay 17 — The Joy of Giving
Reflection: Joy grows when it is shared. Acts of kindness and generosity open our hearts to God’s grace. Give not from abundance, but from love — and joy will overflow.
Prayer: Jesus, make my heart generous. May I find joy in giving, as You gave Yourself for us. Amen.
Light a Candle in ThanksgivingDay 18 — Joy in the Waiting
Reflection: Advent teaches that waiting is not wasted time. Even in seasons of longing, God works within us. Our patience becomes fertile soil for joy to blossom.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to wait with joy, trusting that Your timing brings fullness of life. Amen.
Light a Candle While You WaitDay 19 — The Joy of Mary
Reflection: Mary’s joy was born of surrender — a heart fully given to God. Her Magnificat echoes through the ages as a song of holy joy. May we learn from her to rejoice in God’s mercy.
Prayer: Blessed Mother, fill me with your joy. Help me to magnify the Lord in my daily life. Amen.
Light a Candle with MaryDay 20 — Joy Shared in Community
Reflection: Joy is contagious when shared. This Advent, celebrate with family, friends, and faith community. Rejoicing together reflects the unity of the Body of Christ.
Prayer: Lord, may my joy uplift others. Unite our hearts in shared gratitude for Your coming. Amen.
Light a Candle for Loved OnesDay 21 — Joy That Endures
Reflection: The joy of Christ endures beyond emotions and circumstances. It is a quiet, radiant flame that no darkness can extinguish. Carry this joy into the days ahead.
Prayer: Lord, fill me with lasting joy — the joy that flows from Your love and presence within me. Amen.
Light a Candle for Lasting JoyAs the rose candle burns, may your heart rejoice in the nearness of Christ. Joy is the song of the soul that knows it is loved. Carry this joy into every act of kindness and prayer.
Read Week 4 — Love Light a Candle for Joy
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4