Introduction:
As we immerse ourselves in the Advent season, we find ourselves in a time of preparation—preparing our hearts for the coming of Christ. This season also invites us to reflect on what it means to have joy. Today, we will explore two powerful scriptures: Luke 3:7-18 and Zephaniah 3:14-20, asking the crucial question, “What shall we do?”
In the passages we'll examine, we will see the call to restore joy not just as a feeling but as a state of being—one that stems from our relationship with God and manifests in our actions towards others.
1. The Context of Advent Joy
A. The Prophetic Voice of Zephaniah (Zephaniah 3:14-20)
Zephaniah was a prophet during a time of great upheaval in Israel. The people faced judgment due to their disobedience, but Zephaniah's message is one of hope.
Verses 14-16:
“Sing aloud, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The LORD has taken away the judgments against you; he has cleared away your enemies.”
Here, we see a call to rejoice because God has acted. The people are reminded that even amidst their circumstances, God is working for their restoration.
B. The Advent Message
In Advent, we not only look forward to the celebration of Christ's birth but also acknowledge our shortcomings, turning to God in repentance. The promise of joy is linked to God’s faithfulness and forgiveness.
2. Recognizing Our Need for Joy (Luke 3:7-9)
A. The Ministry of John the Baptist
In Luke 3, we find John the Baptist addressing the crowds who come to him for baptism. His tone may seem harsh at first—calling them a “brood of vipers.”
Illustration—Repentance:
Consider a gardener who prunes an overgrown tree. It's a harsh action, but necessary for new growth. Likewise, John's message is meant to prepare our hearts for transformation. Without recognizing our sin, we cannot truly understand the depth of joy that is available through repentance.
B. The Call to Bear Fruits of Repentance.
John insists that true repentance must bear fruit. He challenges the crowd about their identity as children of Abraham, reminding them that it’s not enough to claim heritage; there must be visible evidence of change (Luke 3:8).
3. The Practical Steps to Restore Joy (Luke 3:10-14)
A. The Question: “What Shall We Do?"
The crowd responds to John’s challenging words with the question, “What shall we do?” This is the crux of our sermon today.
Application 1—Compassionate Action (Luke 3:10-11):
John answers their question by urging them to share with those in need. "Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise."
Illustration:
Imagine a family during the holidays—a season often filled with excess. If they decide to bless a family in need by sharing their surplus, they restore joy not only in that family but also within their own hearts as they embody Christ’s love.
B. Fairness in Actions (Luke 3:12-13)
The tax collectors and soldiers approach John wanting to know what to do. John advises them not to extort money or falsely accuse anyone but to be content with their wages.
-Application 2—Integrity in Work:
In a world where greed often prevails, acting with integrity restores joy both personally and communally. When we act justly and with integrity, it can lead to a more joyful workplace, family environment, and community.
4. The Promise of Restoration (Zephaniah 3:17-20)
A. God’s Presence Delighting in Us
Zephaniah 3:17 provides one of the most beautiful affirmations of God's love:
“The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
Illustration—A Parent’s Love:
Think of a parent watching a child succeed in a performance. The pride and joy are palpable. This image captures how God delights in us, encourages us, and sings over us.
B. A Future with Hope
As we read further in Zephaniah 3:20, we see God’s promise of restoration—transformation not just for ourselves but for our community as well.
5. Embracing the Joy of Advent
A. Living in Response to the Good News
In light of these passages, our joyful response during Advent involves recognizing our need for God, acting with compassion and integrity, and anticipating His promises.
B. The Call to Community
Advent invites us to strengthen our connections with one another, to share our joy and burdens, and act as instruments of God’s love in the world.
6. Conclusion: What Shall We Do?
As we conclude, let us remember that the call to action in Luke 3 and the promise of joy in Zephaniah 3 go hand in hand.
A. Question for Reflection:
What practical steps can we take to embody the spirit of joy this Advent? How can we create spaces of hope and restoration in our families, workplaces, and communities?
B. A Prayer for Joy
Let us pray for the strength to bear fruit, to share joy with others, and to anticipate our Lord’s coming with expectant hearts.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the joy that is found in You. Help us to not only seek Your forgiveness but to act justly, to share generously, and to live in a way that reflects Your love. May this Advent season be a time of joy, transformation, and restoration. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.
