Third Sunday in Advent, December 17th, 2023
Have you ever been overjoyed by something and before you knew it, the joy had worn off? As children, especially at Christmas time, we are overjoyed at what Santa Claus will bring us. We anxiously look forward to all the presents under the tree and try to figure out what is wrapped inside. Let's be honest, whether as children or adults, . . . whether it is a gift given to us or something we have purchased ourselves .. . . whether it is an actual physical product or whether it is simply a good meal that we look forward to devouring . . . . the point is the same: things of this world do indeed bring us joy for a time but then the joy eventually fades. Even if you look at it from the perspective of someone who turns to drink or drugs to find their "happiness," . . . . what happens when the effect of either drink or drug wears off? That person goes back to feeling like they did before. The "high" feeling . . . the "drunk" feeling only lasts so long. Things of the world . . . whether they be electronics . . . or food . . . . or clothing . . . or positions of honour . . . . or titles at our jobs . . . or booze . . . . or drugs . . . all these things only bring temporary fulfillment. They do satisfy, yes, but only for a time. The joy we find in them is only temporary, never lasting.
For the Christian, on the other hand, the joy that is everlasting is our relationship with God. "Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous, for it becometh well the just to be thankful." (Psalm 33) Our personal relationship with Our Blessed Saviour will never disappoint. Our personal relationship with Our Lord and Saviour is one that will last an eternity. While other things in this earthly life will fade away . . . or be consumed . . . or rust away . .. or go out of fashion . . . . the relationship that God offers to us is forever. God will always be faithful to His people. "Gaudete in Domino semper" ("Rejoice in the Lord always") (Philippians 4:4-5) Rejoice in the fact that God loves you! Rejoice in the fact that God sent His only Son to die for you! Rejoice in the fact that God offers you the possibility of eternal life! Give your heart to the One that offered His Heart to you! Give your life to Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and rejoice in the Lord always!
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Gaudete Sunday." And this is because "Gaudete" is the Latin word for rejoice, which comes from the first word of the introit, "Rejoice .. . . " As such, the Church is past the midway point of the season of Advent, and we use this opportunity to take a breather, so to speak. Remember, the season of Advent is supposed to be somewhat somber in nature . . . this is why the liturgical colour during this season is violet or purple as it is in Lent. But today the Church lightens its' mood just a bit and rose coloured vestments can be worn instead of violet for today.
For the Christian, on the other hand, the joy that is everlasting is our relationship with God. "Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous, for it becometh well the just to be thankful." (Psalm 33) Our personal relationship with Our Blessed Saviour will never disappoint. Our personal relationship with Our Lord and Saviour is one that will last an eternity. While other things in this earthly life will fade away . . . or be consumed . . . or rust away . .. or go out of fashion . . . . the relationship that God offers to us is forever. God will always be faithful to His people. "Gaudete in Domino semper" ("Rejoice in the Lord always") (Philippians 4:4-5) Rejoice in the fact that God loves you! Rejoice in the fact that God sent His only Son to die for you! Rejoice in the fact that God offers you the possibility of eternal life! Give your heart to the One that offered His Heart to you! Give your life to Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and rejoice in the Lord always!
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Gaudete Sunday." And this is because "Gaudete" is the Latin word for rejoice, which comes from the first word of the introit, "Rejoice .. . . " As such, the Church is past the midway point of the season of Advent, and we use this opportunity to take a breather, so to speak. Remember, the season of Advent is supposed to be somewhat somber in nature . . . this is why the liturgical colour during this season is violet or purple as it is in Lent. But today the Church lightens its' mood just a bit and rose coloured vestments can be worn instead of violet for today.
Make a point to join St. Margaret Church on Sunday, December 17th, 2023 as we continue our Advent journey. Take time out of your busy schedule and dedicate that time to God. Come listen to His Word and receive His Precious Body and Blood at Communion time. St. Margaret Church worships at the beautiful Chapel at Marquette Manor, located at 8140 N. Township Line Road on the Northwest side of Indianapolis. Mass begins at 10:30 am every Sunday morning. Please make a point to visit us.
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