Third Sunday of Advent- Reflection for December 13, 2020

Written on: December 9, 2020

Reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent
December 13, 2020 

Reading 1: Isaiah 61:1-2A, 10-11
Psalm: Luke 1:46-48, 49-50, 53-54.
Reading 2: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
Gospel: John 1:6-8, 19-28

A theme of Advent has been a time of waiting, recollection, and anticipation. We focus on the arrival of Jesus’ birth. This year of 2020 fits well into these themes. Many of us could make a long list of waiting questions regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. What is it? Where did it come from? How many positive cases? How is it spread? How many have lost loved ones? What are they doing about it? We will continue to await in this season with hope and grace.

The first reading from Isaiah reminds us the Spirit of the Lord is upon me (us) because the Lord has anointed me (us). How do we bring glad tidings to the poor? How do we heal the brokenhearted, bring liberty to captives, and proclaim a year of favor from the Lord? Is it by expressing joy, offering a smile, a phone call, a card, or e-mail? Is it by giving a donation for those who are struggling with a shortage of food or the security of a place to live? Is it giving extra time in prayer?

Paul tells us, after encouraging us to become perfectly holy, “The one who calls you is faithful, and will also accomplish it.”

Isn’t that encouraging? We see God’s faithfulness reflected in the essential workers, tireless health care workers, scientists, and so many who work so long and hard. They show us Jesus’ presence among us, giving us a great sign of hope this Advent.

Prayers are needed for our government leaders who have the power to work against the injustices we witness. Let us pray that they have the strength, the will, and the know-how to continue to bring about evidence of the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ this Advent and Christmas season.

This third Sunday of Advent is called “Gaudete” Sunday – Latin for Rejoice! Many who use the Advent wreath with its four candles to represent the four Sundays of Advent will light the pink or rose candle this Sunday. Priests will wear rose-colored vestments. These are a nice sign of joy. Let us keep joy and hope in our hearts throughout the season!

For a printable copy, click here.

Submitted by: Sister Patricia Connolly, GNSH

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