Father,
You are the source of true joy in Heaven and Earth. Your Holy Spirit dwells in us so we may bear the fruit of joy.
With so many amazing things to be thankful for, why do we live a joyless Christian life. Why do our lives reflect more anxiety and complaints than Your boundless goodness? Why do our words tell people Jesus is the greatest, but our excitement points them elsewhere?
Forgive us for preferring polluted water to the pure water that springs into eternal life. Forgive us for being passionate about so many things except the gospel. Forgive us for masking the good news of great joy proclaimed by the angels.
Lord, let our joy shine brightly even in the midst of affliction, for the joy of the Lord is our strength. Help us rejoice in You always. Implant in us a matchless supernatural joy. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.