Third Sunday of Advent 2021- Gaudete Sunday

Written on: December 8, 2021

Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again. Rejoice! (Phil. 4:4)

Written by: Mary Enslow, GNSHA

First Reading: Zephaniah 3: 14-18a
Responsorial Psalm: Isaiah 12: 2-3, 4, 5-6
Second Reading: Philippians 4: 4-7
Gospel: Luke 3:10-18

How many times do we rejoice in our lifetime?
Definitely more times than we can count or even remember.

Let’s look at some of the times that rejoicing has happened. . . A young couple announcing that they are engaged to be married. We rejoice with the couple as they take the next step in their relationship. The date has been set for rejoicing with the happy couple on their special day. Then, there is more rejoicing as they announce that they are expecting their first child. When they have their child, more rejoicing, and even more rejoicing with the Church when the child is Baptized.

But, how many times does God rejoice? Just as many times as we rejoice? More!

He rejoices when we come to Church to receive the sacraments, especially the sacrament of reconciliation. He rejoices when we return to Church after many years of being away, (or even after the pandemic.)

God rejoices even now when we do many acts of kindness, helping someone when they need assistance, sharing food and clothing with those less fortunate than yourself, or being present to anyone who is going through a rough time. God rejoices all the more when you step out of your comfort zone to share your time and talent with others. This will change you so that you can say it again, “Rejoice.

Pray and Reflect

1. Using Lectio Divina, read one of the scripture passages and reflect on a certain word or passage that speaks to you.
2. As you light the third candle, notice how bright it is since the first week of Advent. Ask yourself, “how can I share this light with others?”
3. Take some time from the hustle and bustle of all the Christmas preparations and remember Who is the reason for the season.

Third Sunday of Advent 2021- Gaudete Sunday -print copy

This entry was posted in Matters of Faith and tagged: Baptism, child, Christmas, Church, Gaudete Sunday, God, helping, Isaiah, kindness, Lectio Divinia, Luke, marriage, Philippians, pray, present, reason, reflect, Rejoice, return, sacraments, Sharing, talent, third candle, time, Zephania