Third Sunday of Advent Reflection

December 15, 2024

Zephaniah 3: 14-18a

Psalm: Isaiah 12: 2–6

Philippians 4: 4–7

Luke 3: 10–18

Give me an R --- R!

Give me an E --- E!

Give me a JOICE --- REJOICE!

REJOICE! The word of the day! Zephania is adamant: Sing joyfully! Be glad! Exult! Like a cheerleader, expecting crowds to respond, he fires up our enthusiasm, asserting “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty Savior who rejoices over you in His love.”

What do I allow to bring me joy? How is that joy a sign of God’s living breath in me? As Advent reaches its climax, we step forward to claim Christ within us. Reasons for rejoicing continue with Isaiah. No room for sour faces here! Instead, “With joy, you shall draw water from the springs of salvation… Acclaim God’s name! Shout with exaltation!” Isaiah’s words of hope and promise clarify and deepen our GAUDETE --- not only privately but as we relate to others.

Where can I be more positive in my speaking? More gentle in my relationships? More attentive and grateful? As I journey toward the Advent fulfillment of Incarnate Love, where will I embrace the catalyst of the Life-giving Spirit of the Living Word?

Can Paul be any more specific? “Rejoice in the Lord always!” … “kindness to all” … “no anxiety” … “By prayer and petition make your requests known to God.”

Mining these Scripture treasures requires silence and time. Therefore, our REJOICE comes alive in service, not a complacent inner rest. When my sisters, co-workers and those I meet casually in the hallways, on the streets, or in shopping lines need an encouraging word, a helping hand, a simple smile, a prayer — will I be aware of that plea? In this third week of Advent, in society’s consumerism and stress, in the faces of the homeless (in person or on screen), the jobless, the hopeless, the forgotten, what will be my response?

Written by Carol Kelzer, ASLW