Readings
I - Is. 35: 1-6, 10
II - Jas. 5: 7-10
III - Mt. 11: 2-11
REJOICE THE LORD IS NEAR
The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday. It expresses the joy of anticipation at the imminent approach of the Christmas celebration. In the first reading prophet Isaiah foretells about the joyous days of the Messiah. The prophet encourages the faint hearted to be hopeful and fearless because with the Messiah comes the salvation: the restoration of Israel. In the second reading, St. Paul exhorts the Christians to be patient and enduring by proposing the model of prophets who suffered on account of the proclamation of the Word of God. He asks them to be patient like the farmer who waits for the precious fruits of the earth because with the Lord remains our reward. In the Gospel passage, John the Baptist sends his disciples to Jesus for the confirmation about the Messiah. Jesus says nothing but quotes Prophet Isaiah’s prophecy and makes them witnesses of the same. In the second part of the Gospel Jesus praises John the Baptist because he was intent in preparing the way of the Lord with great courage and boldness that inherited him death.
Advent is a grace filled time given by the Church to amend our ways, to align our lives unto the ways of the Lord. Do be discouraged at all that is happening around, be intent and focused like John the Baptist in preparing ourselves and helping others as well for the second coming of the Lord. Do not lose patient in practicing the Gospel values because, with the Lord will come our reward to, the joy of being with him forever in Heaven. May our mind and heart resonate with the Prayer: “Come Lord Jesus, come.”
Amen🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
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