The joyful mysteries meditation is one of the most beneficial ways to pray the rosary. Not only does it unify vocal and mental prayer, but also it will encourage you to develop a deep love for the Lord.
The first joyful mystery is the Annunciation where an angel reveals that Mary will become the mother of Jesus. This is the most amazing and joyous event in human history, for it is when God became Man and dwelt among us.
When the angel pronounced this wonderful news, Mary responded with great joy. She went to her cousin Elizabeth who was also pregnant with a baby, disregarding her own needs in order to share this good news with her. This was a very important lesson in how to be a true daughter of the Father and a model of neighborly love.
Another lesson we learn from this mystery is how to serve and sacrifice in order to help others. Service, selflessness and sacrifice are things that can only be done out of love. They do not always come easily but when done in a spirit of sacrifice they can bring great joy.
The fourth joyful mystery is the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. When Mary and Joseph present Jesus to the temple, they must contend with the prophecy of Simeon: “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall and many to rise.” The prophetic words are frightening, but they are also a comforting reminder that Mary will one day carry in her heart the Christ, the Son of God.