12/15/2024 -3rd Sunday of Advent c

The Dance of God and Our Steps in the Right Direction

The first word of the entrance hymn today is “Rejoice!” This tradition originates from the pre-Vatican II Latin Mass, where the first word of the Introit, or entrance antiphon, was Gaudete (rejoice, be glad). Hence, this Sunday has come to be known as Gaudete Sunday. Today, we light the pink candle on our Advent wreath to mark this day of joy.

In the past, Advent was observed as a penitential season, with four fast days during this period. The celebrant of the liturgy wore vestments in the penitential colors of purple or violet, creating a deliberately somber and reflective atmosphere.

Amid this somberness, Gaudete Sunday emerged as a joyful reminder of what people were preparing for—the very joyful occasion of the birth of Jesus. It served as a window of brightness and anticipation in the midst of penance and fasting. On this day, violet vestments in many churches give way to a lighter, less penitential color—a pinkish rose. Similarly, Laetare Sunday during Lent offers a comparable moment of joy.

St. Paul’s advice from his letter to the Philippians, which we read in today’s second reading, reinforces this third Sunday of Advent’s traditional message of joy: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” Joy is the central theme of our readings and prayers today, as well as of the entire Advent season, culminating in the celebration of Christ. One of the most well-known Christmas carols, Joy to the World, embodies this theme. Written by Isaac Watts in 1719, its music derives from Handel’s Messiah and will soon be sung across the globe.

The first reading, from the prophet Zephaniah, delivers a powerful message of judgment and hope from the reign of King Josiah in Judah (635–625 BC). In a striking passage, part of which we read today, Zephaniah portrays God not just as a judge but as a joyful, celebratory figure: 

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."

This novel image of God rejoicing with singing—even dancing with joy—is a profound metaphor for divine love and forgiveness. It reminds us that God’s ultimate desire is not punishment but restoration and joyful communion with His people.

In the Gospel, Luke recounts the teachings of John the Baptist, who emphasized practical actions to demonstrate true repentance and a changed heart. To the crowds, John advised: “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” This highlights generosity and caring for those in need as signs of genuine repentance.

To tax collectors, John said: “Stop collecting more than what is prescribed.” This addressed the common exploitation in their profession, calling them to honesty and integrity.

When soldiers asked him what they should do, John responded: “Do not practice extortion, do not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with your wages.” He challenged them to resist abusing their authority and to cultivate contentment.

John’s guidance to these groups shared a common theme: ethical behavior and fairness. He emphasized that true repentance must be reflected in everyday actions and relationships.

Pope Francis echoes this message in his recent writings and talks. He teaches that to experience the joy of the Gospel and union with God, we must share God’s concern for the poorest among us. He calls us to mourn the scandal of millions starving in a world capable of providing enough for everyone.

Pope Francis invites us to dream of a world where all people enjoy love, nourishment, education, healthcare, and dignified work. Each of us can contribute to this vision through small acts of kindness, gestures of compassion, and generosity with our time and resources to help those in need. Holiness is a journey of small steps taken in compassion when the God of Joy fills our hearts and inspires us to share our lives with the less privileged. Fr Tom Kunnel, C.O