In the Catholic Tradition, this third Sunday in Advent is known as Gaudate (Rejoice) Sunday. The name is drawn from the Second Reading at Mass, Paul’s Letter to the Philippians:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known by all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then, the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (4:4-7).
I have recently been taking an online course in Positive Psychology. It’s been enlightening, to say the least, and it’s really helped me see how easy it is to fall into the sea of negativity many find themselves in at the present time. While there certainly are negative events going on, our call, I believe, is to acknowledge them, but don’t get stuck in them, consuming much of our energy on them. Let’s face it, there is much in our lives worthy of rejoicing about, and to be grateful for. It’s time to get unstuck from that useless anxiety that takes away our joy. It’s time to be better known for our kindness to others rather than the unnecessary burdens we place on them.
For these remaining days of Advent, let’s begin and end our day with a mini reflection on something/someone in our lives we should rejoice about. We are so blessed, and we have much to be grateful for. Let’s end our Advent with a glorious bang, celebrating with joy the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. That day will soon be upon us!
