December 15th

The Hymn of Joy

• Lyrics

  Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee
  God of glory, Lord of love
  Hearts unfold like flow'rs before Thee
  Op'ning to the Sun above
  Melt the clouds of sin and sadness
  drive the dark of doubt away
  Giver of immortal gladness
  fill us with the light of day

  All Thy works with joy surround Thee
  Earth and heav'n reflect Thy rays
  Stars and angels sing around Thee
  center of unbroken praise
  Field and forest, vale and mountain
  Flow'ry meadow, flashing sea
  chanting bird and flowing fountain
  call us to rejoice in Thee

  Thou art giving and forgiving
  ever blessing, ever blest
  well-spring of the joy of living
  ocean-depth of happy rest
  Thou the Father, Christ our Brother
  all who live in love are Thine
  Teach us how to love each other
  lift us to the Joy Divine

  Mortals join the mighty chorus
  which the morning stars began
  Father-love is reigning o'er us
  brother-love binds man to man.
  Ever singing, march we onward
  victors in the midst of strife
  joyful music lifts us sunward
  in the triumph song of life

Scripture

“The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands.”

— Psalm 19:1 (CSB)

Other Scripture reading:

Psalm 19, Isaiah 55:10-13, Colossians 1:15-23

Discussion Questions

1. What are some reasons you have to praise and adore the God of creation?

2. Do you think we deserve to experience the beauty of creation given to us by God? Why or why not?

3. Why can we celebrate with joyful adoration during this season (and all seasons)?