Scripture Reflection, December 13, 2009: A Day of Rejoicing

Scripture Readings:
Zephariah 3:14-18a
Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:10-18

Gaudete Sunday-A day of rejoicing!!!

“Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel! “

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!”

The third Sunday of Advent is also called Gaudete (Latin: rejoice) Sunday. It is on this day that we light the rose colored candle, a shade brighter than violet that underlines our joy and anticipation in this season of Advent.

The first two readings for this Sunday reflect that growing anticipation as we prepare ourselves for the coming of our Lord. They specifically highlight the joy and gladness that build within the hearts of Christians at this time of year. This theme of joy and anticipation leads into this Sunday’s gospel reading as we reflect on the ministry of John the Baptist.

The gospel begins with the crowds asking John the Baptist for guidance. He responds by admonishing them to give to those who are less fortunate, to act justly in their work, and to be honest in all their interactions. They suspect that John might be the Christ, but John assures them that “one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals.” He preaches to them, telling of how Christ will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire. They listen as John continues “exhorting them in many other ways” and preaching the good news to the people.

How exciting it must have been to hear John the Baptist speak of Christ’s coming! The crowds were filled with expectation as they listened to John and anticipated Christ’s arrival during their own lifetime. During this period of the liturgical year, readings like this help us to reflect on the longing of the Jewish people for their Messiah. Their hope and trust in God’s promise serve as a model for how we can live out our lives own lives of faith.

As we look at the teachings of John the Baptist, it is important to remember the theme of joy that carries over from the first two readings. While he gives different instructions to each of the groups that ask for his guidance, I believe that his directives can be summed up by another scripture passage: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God“(Micah 6:8). It is not enough for us to simply go through the motions of living Christ’s teachings. We are called to allow the Holy Spirit to enter into our very being, to fill our hearts with joy and gladness. While we keep our eye on the reward of heaven, we also strive to follow God’s will because of our love and gratitude for his great sacrifice. We strive to please God because he is our Father, our friend, our companion, and our guide. Throughout this week, let us rejoice in God’s great love for us and do all that we can to share that love with all whom we encounter.

Cry out with joy and gladness!

Kate Crecelius

(Kate is a 2009 graduate of University of Notre Dame, with a major in Science Pre-Professional and French. She is currently an intern for the Office of Campus Ministry at Notre Dame.)