Third week of Advent: A time to rejoice

From the Second Reading of the Third Sunday (Gaudete Sunday) of Advent:
 
Rejoice in the Lord always.
 I shall say it again: rejoice!
 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.
 Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding 
 will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-7).

“Rejoice and be glad that so great and good a Lord, on coming into the Virgin’s womb, willed to appear despised, needy and poor in this world so that men who were in dire poverty and suffering great need of heavenly food might be made rich in him.” (St. Clare of Assisi)
“With Christ, Mary sums up in herself all joys; she lives the perfect joy promised the Church: Mater plena sanctae laetitiae. And it is with good reason that her children on earth, turning to her who is the mother of hope and grace, invoke her as the cause of their joy.” (St. Paul VI)

“At Christmas when Christ comes, will he find a warm heart? Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving others with God’s own love and concern.” (St. Teresa of Calcutta)
“The grace which was revealed in our world is Jesus … he entered our history; he has shared our journey. He came to free us from darkness and to grant us light. In him was revealed the grace, the mercy and the tender love of the Father … Advent increases our hope, a hope which does not disappoint. The Lord never lets us down.” (Pope Francis

Homily for the Third Sunday of Advent
December 15, 2024

Today, the Third Sunday of Advent, is traditionally called “Gaudete Sunday,” a Latin word from the ancient prayers that begin this day’s Mass telling us “To rejoice.” Advent is the doorway to the joys of Christmas when Jesus came to dwell with us, the joys of encounter with Christ!

Our first reading today from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah tells us “The Lord is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear … the Lord God is in your midst, a mighty savior; he will rejoice over you with gladness and renew you in his love.” That’s what is waiting for us, that’s who is waiting for us on the other side of the Door. Come in; come home; find the mercy you need and share it with others.

Our second reading from the Letter to the Philippians encourages us “have no anxiety at all but in everything, by prayer and petition and thanksgiving,” make peace with God and let that peace guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus! Come in the door; come home; find the mercy you need and share it with others.

Our Gospel reading from St. Luke presents John the Baptist inviting us how to ready ourselves to meet the Messiah: give what you have; do not take advantage of others; no more gossiping or judgment; hear the good news and proclaim it. Bring your living faith to the door and come in; come home; find the mercy you need and share it.

The Season of Advent once again opens the door to the Savior, so there is reason to rejoice. As we anticipate the great feast of Christmas, the Church opens the door to all who call St. Mary Mother of God Parish their spiritual home. On this Third Sunday of Advent, “Gaudete Sunday,” rejoice in the Savior’s compassion and love. Enter the joy of the Lord and make yourself at home.