GROW: Today many of us light a rose Advent candle as we celebrate Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice,” and today’s readings hint at the joy of Christ’s coming. Who among us can’t relate to the concrete examples from the prophet Isaiah that give us many reasons for hope and joy as we anticipate Christ’s birth. Those of us who have experienced fear or doubt find reassurance: “Be strong, fear not!” During the holidays when many will grieve those who have died this past year, we hear that “sorrow and mourning will flee.” In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist points us to the source of our joy in the person of Jesus Christ. As we continue to prepare for his coming, we can take comfort knowing that God is with us now and for eternity. As we hear in today's Psalm, "The Lord God keeps faith forever.”
GO EVANGELIZE | PRAYER, INVITATION, WITNESS, ACCOMPANIMENT
GO: I am not a patient person. Waiting in the slow grocery line raises my heart rate, and I have to use cruise control in 35 mph zones (it works!). Despite my impatience, I’ve grown to love planting a vegetable garden in the spring and never cease to be amazed at the rich harvest of tomatoes in July or August. As St. James reminds us, we can learn from the farmer who patiently waits for the rains. “You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand.” Whether we have patient personalities or not, we can rest assured that the Lord is with us for the long game. Just as the rains help our tomatoes to come in – a miracle that still surprises me each summer – our faithfulness, prayer, and good works can nurture our hearts and our souls. They also remind us of the true joy of the season: Our Savior, Jesus Christ, has taken on our humanity for our salvation. “Lord, come and save us.”
ACTION: Need something to brighten your living area during the deep of winter? You can find amaryllis “bulbs in a box” online. They bloom inside and can be moved outside when spring comes, serving as a visible reminder that patience pays off. This can also be a nice gift for a friend or perhaps an elderly relative who does not have access to a garden.