Reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent: Sunday, December 11th, 2022

It is amazing how fast time has passed.  We have reached the 3rd Sunday of Advent which is also called “Rejoice or “Gaudete” Sunday.” As we light the rose-colored candle on the advent wreath, we focus on Jesus’ coming as a reason to rejoice. 

There are so many issues that can challenge our need to rejoice in this world. Natural disasters, wars, violence, injustices, hatred, racial justice issues, and political strife, all cause us to wonder why we should rejoice.

The source of our need to rejoice is the salvation that comes to us through Jesus Christ. He comes into this world to bring us new hope, new joy, and a new way of being present to each other. From Jesus first coming at his incarnation, to the way Jesus reveals himself in our everyday life and as we wait for Jesus’ second coming, we find hope in a world that waits for salvation.

On this third Sunday of Advent, the words from the scripture give us a reason to rejoice. For example, Saint Paul tells us, “Rejoice in the Lord always for our salvation is near.” Jesus is our salvation and our hope. What are the signs of the kingdom that we see in our midst?

Through the remaining weeks of Advent and throughout the Christmas season, may the struggles and difficulties of our lives bring forth life through our faith. God is with us! We must witness and proclaim to the world what we have seen through the miracles of God’s hand. Have courage and do not fear for God comes to save us.