Saint Rita Catholic Church and School in Webster, NY - An Introduction to the Sunday Readings

“Rejoice In The Lord Always… The Lord Is Near”

Today is the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. The word Gaudete is taken from today's entrance antiphon,“Gaudete Domino semper” (Rejoice in the Lord always). It is a reminder that there is reason to be joyful—Christ is not far off.

In each of our first readings during Advent, we hear from a different Old Testament prophet, each proclaiming the coming of our Lord in majesty and bringing us salvation. In today’s first reading from the Prophet Zephaniah (Zep 3:14-18), we hear him proclaim to the people that there would come a day when the King of Israel, the Lord would be in their midst and renew them in his love. It would be a cause for great rejoicing.

In our Epistle reading (Philippians 4:4-7), we hear the passage on which today's Gaudete theme is based. St. Paul sums up its meaning succinctly: "Rejoice! . . . The Lord is near." Paul also reminds us that our joy can be especially found in the kindness (mercy) we show to one another.

In our Gospel reading (Luke 3:10-18), the people were asking John the Baptist, “What should we do?” To each group, John exhorted them to act with justice, virtue and mercy. Do not steal, do not covet, do not bear false witness. Feed the hungry and clothe the naked. He called them to change the way they were living. No matter what their station in life, they should treat everyone with justice, and care for those who have less. “The people were filled with expectation and were asking in their hearts whether John might be the Christ. John answered them all saying, ‘One mightier than I is coming . . . He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’”

And so, we wait for the coming of our Lord. And while we wait, we are called to change the way we live so that we may be prepared for His coming. Give alms to the poor, treat everyone with honesty and love.

It should be noted that our parish family is practicing these very values in the number of Advent related activities that we have. Thanksgiving baskets, Christmas Angel Project, CMA, food drives, and various ministries are all evidence that we hold these values near to our hearts. This is where we find our Lord; this is how He comes to us. We find such joy in giving. It is indeed a cause for rejoicing.