Joy is an often-elusive emotion that transcends mere happiness. It is a sense of fulfillment and contentment firmly formed below the surface, even amid challenging times and difficult circumstances. It is deeper than happiness, which is tied to external factors and experiences. Joy emerges from within, spawned from our perspectives, beliefs, and principles. A good movie, show, or book can bring us happiness. Spending quality time with loved ones or having internal peace brings us joy.
The liturgical calendar designates the third Sunday of Advent as Gaudete Sunday. “Gaudete” is derived from the Latin word ” rejoice,” taken from today’s New Testament Reading from St. Paul, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” —Philippians 4:4. Gaudete Sunday serves as a midpoint in the season of Advent, providing a time of joy. Violet is the predominant color used during Advent at the altar, Advent candles, and vestments worn by presiding priests. The color signifies penance and preparation. For Gaudete Sunday, the color shifts to rose, transitioning our outlook from somber anticipation to the joyful expectation of Christ’s coming. The themes for Gaudete Sunday Readings are joy, hope, and the nearness of the Lord. Zephaniah, the Old Testament prophet, calls the people to rejoice because the Lord is in their midst, while St. Paul, in the Second Reading, emphasizes rejoicing in the Lord and letting go of anxieties by praying. He promises the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.
But how do we attain this joy as we wait in anticipation of the arrival of Jesus? Both Saints Paul and John the Baptist tell us in today’s Readings. First, St. Paul, “Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.” — Philippians 4:5-6. Then we hear from St. John. Last week’s Gospel introduced us to him, and this week’s picks up from there. The crowd asked John: What should we do to prepare for the coming of the Lord? John challenges the crowd with his answer, which is the same challenge given to us: be holy. John, “And the crowds asked him, “What then should we do?” He said to them in reply, “Whoever has two tunics should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” —Luke 3:10-11. These Readings encourage us to prepare for the coming of the Messiah with acts of kindness and charity.
Occasions, interactions, and other factors can bring us happiness, but the emotion is fleeting. We are invited to rejoice in the nearness of God and prepare our hearts for His coming by doing acts of charity. The prophet Zephaniah encourages us to rejoice, for the Lord removed the judgment against us and is present among us, a mighty savior who transforms our despair into joy and will rejoice over us with gladness and renew us in his love. May His salvation bring you comfort and joy this season and for always.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.
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