 The first sermon I ever preached was on joy, fitting as joy seems to be a marker of my ministry and how I understand the role of pastor. I stood on the stage at Mars Hill Bible Church proclaiming Mother Mary's song of justice for the poor and humble. I preached that joy is when hungry bellies are filled and when God remembers us with mercy. For me in this third week of Advent, joy is the work of justice in our communities. Joy is when we join Mother Mary in the song of praise and proclaim with dignity the favor of the Lord.