Artwork by Ashley Stephen

Joy

You fill me with joy
I say that with perfect clarity
With clear perfection

You hold my yesterday and my tomorrow
My troubles and my sorrow
And you turn them into joy

You tell me not to be afraid
That you have brought good news

You tell me not to waste my days
With worry and clouded views

This season can be difficult
We’ve lost people who made it bright
There is celebration mixed with painful remembrance

And that’s okay
You meet us in our blue Christmas
You fill the voids with new promises

You tell me that I’m not alone
That you’re with me in the mess

You say I have an eternal home
That I’m chosen, known, and blessed

And that gives me joy
Unspeakable, unthinkable, unbreakable joy

You’re promises give me hope
Your provision gives me peace
And your unwavering love makes me shout with joy

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

That is really good news
The best even
Halleluja
Amen

Categories: Advent, Faith, PoetryTags: Advent, art, Christian, christianity, christmas, creativity, Faith, God, hand lettering, Jesus, joy, love, painting, peace, Poetry, praise