Gaudete!

Rejoice!

This Sunday, the third Sunday in Advent, is known as Gaudete Sunday, from the scripture “Rejoice (Gaudete) in the Lord always.” We light the third candle on our Advent Wreath, the rose candle, which signifies Joy.

Joy is deeper than happiness. Joy comes in the morning even in the midst of dark despair and suffering (Psalm 30). As followers of Jesus, joy can bring a smile to our face in the most unexpected of circumstances.

I have just read the Reverend Russ Levenson’s new book, Witness to Belief, in which he has a conversation with twelve pilgrims about their faith journeys. Each of these very famous people responded to Jesus’ call “Follow me…” He notes that “they see God in different ways, but they are still followers. They confess to still growing and still learning – to still being on their own unique pilgrimages.” (p. 216)

Among these twelve, several similarities are evident – humility, sincerity, devotion, generosity. In addition, all expressed joy. Levenson writes: “Joy – in every conversation, there was laughter and smiles. Dr. Jane Goodall’s smile that contained a “little secret”, was something that was written on the face of each pilgrim here.” (p.217)

What brings us joy? How is joy a part of our faith journeys?

The Latin “Gaudete” recalled my high school graduation hymn “Gaudeamus Igitur”. I think the phrase is appropriate here as well as we are ever “graduating” to new and deeper dimensions of our relationship with God.

Gaudeamus Igitur! Let us rejoice then! Therefore let us rejoice!

Let us pray a prayer for the lighting the rose candle on the Advent Wreath:

O Lord, our God, thank you for sending Jesus to bring us salvation and restore our joy. We rejoice because he came to live with us and in us and through us. May the good news of great joy of Jesus’ coming be ever on our lips. Help us to be yours as we wait for you to come again. We love you. Amen.

Advent Blessings,

Judy Q +