Third Sunday of Advent

As we rush around worrying about finding that perfect gift, meeting the shipping deadline, and figuring out what we will wear to the party, today’s readings remind us to slow down and reflect on the Perfect Gift which already came for each one of us over two thousand years ago.

Today is Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is a Latin word that means “rejoice”. In our readings, we hear that we are to have no anxiety at all, to be confident and unafraid, to rejoice, and to cry out with joy and gladness. Not because we are assured we will find the right gift or be the hit of the party, but because we have been promised a Savior who loves us in spite of all of our flaws and failings. We could never merit this immeasurable love, but God lavishly pours out His grace upon us. He is with us, right now, in the midst of our own personal holiday chaos. The Prince of Peace is reminding us that his peace can be our peace too, if we listen and heed the words of his cousin, John the Baptist, when the crowds asked him, “What should we do?”

We are to share of our good fortune, our time and our energy. We are to remember those who are in need. Maybe they are in need of food, warm clothing, and shelter, or maybe they are in need of a hand to hold, an ear to listen or a friend to just be by their side. They may be far away, but they may also be in a nearby nursing home, or the next office down the hall, or even in our own home.

Give the gift of yourself, your time and your love to all those around you and God will fill you with the greatest joy and peace as you finish Advent and prepare for the coming of the Perfect Gift. Rejoice!

Happy Gaudete Sunday!

Mike MacNulty is the husband of Jori and the father of Jillian, Jessica, Michael and Jenna. The MacNulty’s worship at St. Maria Goretti (Westfield). Mike is proud to lead and support the efforts of Stewardship and Development within our Diocesan staff.