Let us carry the light of joy into our lives.
The third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, invites us to
embrace a great sense of joy and anticipation as we approach the celebration of
Christ’s birth. The term “Gaudete” means “rejoice” in Latin, and this theme is
central to the liturgy and readings of the day.
In the first reading from the book of Zephaniah, the call to “shout for joy” and
“sing joyfully” resonates with all of us. We are reminded that despite challenges,
there is a reason for joy because of God’s enduring presence and promises.
Marking a shift from the penitential purple of the other weeks, the rose-colored
candle on the Advent wreath symbolizes this profound joy.
The second reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians reinforces this
message. St. Paul urges us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” – another reminder
that joy is a cornerstone of our faith. Joy is not dependent on our circumstances
but grounded in our relationship with God, who is faithful and loving. When fully
embraced, this joy can transform our hearts, dispelling gloom and filling us with
hope and light, even in the darkest times.
As we reflect on these readings, we are encouraged to let joy burn brightly
within us. The light of the rose-colored candle is not just symbolic; it is an
invitation to internalize this joy and allow it to guide our actions and interactions.
When we carry this light within us, we are better equipped to share it with others,
especially those who are less fortunate or struggling. This means reaching out to
others with compassion and generosity. It might involve volunteering at a local
shelter, sharing resources with those in need, or simply offering a listening ear or
a kind word to someone who is lonely. Through these acts of kindness, we
become bearers of joy, helping to lift the spirits of those around us.
Dear brothers and sisters, Gaudete Sunday reminds us that joy is not
passive but active. It encourages us to look beyond our needs and desires,
urging us to connect with others and share in the communal anticipation of
Christ’s coming. By doing so, we enhance our own experience of Advent but also
contribute to the joy of our communities. Each of us has the power to be a source
of joy in someone else’s life by brightening their day with a smile, kind word or
helping hand. Let us be active participants in spreading joy, not just recipients of
it. Let us carry this light of joy into the world, brightening the lives of those we
encounter. May this joy transform our hearts, dispel any darkness, and prepare
ourselves and those around us to welcome Christ with open and joyful hearts.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor