Derwood Alliance Church

In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores the concept of joy during the Advent season. He explains that joy is more than just happiness; it's a state of being and a fruit of the Spirit. We are designed for joy by God, but sin has distorted our center. The Christmas story, as told in Luke 2, brings a message of great joy through the birth of Jesus as Savior, Messiah, and Lord.Pastor Mark emphasizes that we find joy in Jesus and in relationships with others. He points out that Jesus came at just the right time and place, as stated in Galatians 4:4-5, to bring salvation to all people. This joy in Jesus is meant to overflow from us to others, creating joy-filled relationships.The sermon concludes with an encouragement to experience joy by saying yes to Jesus, leaning into joyful relationships, and looking forward to the future joy of Christ's return. Pastor Mark reminds us that God has created us for a joy-filled relationship with Him, and through Jesus, we can have the joy of our salvation restored, as the