On this Gaudete Sunday, we rejoice in the coming of Christ
Reflections on the readings for the Third Sunday of Advent (December 12, 2021): ZEP 3:14-18; IS 12:2-3,4,5-6; PHIL 4:4-7; LK 3:10-18
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
Let us think about the joy God shares with us on this Gaudete Sunday and every day.
Once again, we are asked to hear St. John the Baptist proclaim to all who will listen that the Messiah is on His way. Over the centuries before Christ came, many wondered if He would appear in their generation. John lets the people of his generation know they need to be ready. The time of salvation has come at last. And the singular ascetic preacher who wanders the desert and stands in the Jordan River to baptize those willing to repent gained many followers. Clearly, people were anxious to believe that God had answered His people and that their lives were about to change. So when they asked John what they should do to prepare for the Messiah’s arrival, he gave them wise and straightforward answers. They should look care for others who have less than they do. The Baptist told tax collectors to stop stealing, and soldiers to be people of integrity and stop grumbling. He was not asking them to join him in wearing the skins of wild animals, or eating just locusts and honey. He told them to change themselves while living their ordinary lives. Now, however, they were to pay attention to all that God had already commanded them – and to be ready to hear and follow the Messiah when He came among them.
Nevertheless, they wanted to know if he himself was the one for whom they waited. But he immediately denied this. “John answered them all, saying, ‘I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of His sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire’” (Luke 3:16). Before long, John the Baptist, who spoke the truth and feared only God Himself, was killed in His service. People then wondered if Jesus were the Messiah. Many followed Him and, through His ministry, Crucifixion, and Resurrection, learned that He was indeed the Savior of the world.
Suggested missionary action: Let us think about the joy God shares with us on this Gaudete Sunday and every day. We can make a list of the simple things that give us joy at this season and throughout the year. We can thank God for His blessings and share them with others.
