Pastoral Message – December 17, 2023
The Third Sunday of Advent has a Latin nickname: “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete is the first word of the Entrance Antiphon for this day in Latin, and it means “Rejoice!” The full text of the antiphon is “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Indeed the Lord is near.” (Phil. 4:4-5) Joy is a special theme for this day. This is why we light the rose-colored candle of the Advent wreath on the Third Sunday of Advent; it’s a way of “lightening things up.”
It’s possible that, with the hustle and bustle of holiday activities, some people might be experiencing a bit of stress these days; if so, this message of joy is especially timely. The upcoming celebration of the Birth of Christ is too wonderful for us to allow anything to get us down.
I can’t help thinking of one of the first major documents written by Pope Francis; it is entitled “The Joy of the Gospel.” The Holy Father began the document with these words: “The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus. Those who accept his offer of salvation are set free from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness, and loneliness. With Christ joy is constantly born anew.”
How, then, can we cultivate joy in our lives? Here are a few ideas:
- Be attentive to your relationship with Jesus Christ. Make sure that prayer is a regular part of your daily life.
- Pray specifically for the gift of joy.
- Pay attention to the moral aspect of your life. The Lord says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:10-11)
- Surrender to the will of God. He really does know what is best for us.
- Keep a good sense of humor. It helps!
- Cultivate a grateful disposition. We have so many blessings!
May this season be a time of joy for all of us.
Fr. Philip
