Rejoice Always: Embracing Joy in God’s Presence

12-15-2024Weekly ReflectionFr. Augustine Acheme, VC

On this Third Sunday of Advent- Gaudete Sunday- the readings emphasize joy, a joy rooted in God’s presence and His promise of salvation. In the first reading from Zephaniah, we hear, “Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel!” (Zep 3:14). The Lord has removed the judgment against His people and is in their midst as a mighty savior. This theme of rejoicing is carried through to the second reading, where St. Paul exhorts, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (Phil 4:4). The readings invite us to consider what it means to live in joyful expectation, especially as we prepare for the coming of Christ.

This joy that we are called to is not just an emotional response to good news; it is a deep, abiding sense of peace and fulfillment that comes from knowing that God is near. Paul’s letter to the Philippians reminds us that the source of our joy is the Lord’s nearness. He writes, “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” (Phil 4:6-7). True joy springs from the peace that God gives when we trust in His providence, lifting our worries and anxieties to Him in prayer.

In today’s Gospel, the crowds come to John the Baptist, asking what they must do to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. John’s responses are practical and straightforward: share with those in need, act justly, and be content. These instructions are not just about external behavior but about fostering an attitude of generosity and humility. Joy is deeply connected to this attitude of selflessness. When we turn our focus away from our own concerns and toward the needs of others, we create space for God’s joy to take root in our hearts.

Gaudete Sunday reminds us that even in the midst of life’s challenges, we are called to rejoice because God is with us. Advent is a time of preparation, but it is also a  time of joyful anticipation. We are reminded that God has already entered into our world, that He is with us now, and that He will come again in glory. As we continue our Advent journey, let us heed Paul’s words to “rejoice always” by recognizing God’s presence in our lives, trusting in His love, and sharing that love with those around us. In doing so, we open our hearts to the true joy that only God can give.

Fr. Augustine Acheme, VC