Third Sunday of Advent – Dec 15, 2024
Today we get the great opening line from the second reading: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I say it again: rejoice!” (Phil 4:4). Why is joy so important that Paul has to command the Philippians (twice!) to rejoice? Papal encyclicals, numerous biblical passages, and Jesus himself counsel people of faith to strive for a life of joy. Rejoice! Be glad! That’s an order!
French philosopher Léon Bloy wrote, “Joy is the infallible sign of God’s presence.” Joy is a sacramental sign revealing the invisible God. As such, spiritual joy, unlike happiness, is not the result of external factors like good fortune but is a gift of the Spirit. We recognize this gift only if we have made space for it. But if we are filled with anxiety and fear, God’s presence is less visible to us and to others. Lack of joy keeps us and others from God.
Give up fear of not having enough or missing out. Only then can your kindness be known to all and God’s peace and joy dwell in you.
As we approach the memorial of the Lord’s Nativity, let us use these latter weeks of Advent to make room for Christ’s joy. If you have more than you need, share with those who go without. Let go of control and greed. Give up fear of not having enough or missing out. Only then can your kindness be known to all and God’s peace and joy dwell in you.
So I say it again, rejoice!
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