As we gather to reflect on the theme of joy this “Gaudate” Sunday, I would like to draw our attention to the profound messages contained in our readings. As we are now deep into the season of Advent, a time of preparation and hopeful anticipation for the coming of our Lord, these readings invite us to understand the essence of joy in our spiritual lives.
First, let us clarify the differences between rejoicing, joy, and happiness as I have often asked myself if there are any that I could detect. Happiness we can say, is often seen as a fleeting emotion, often tied to our external circumstances. It may depend on what is happening around us—achieving a goal, receiving good news, or enjoying a beautiful day. Joy, on the other hand, seems to be deeper and more profound. It is rooted in our inner being and in our relationship with God. Joy persists regardless of our circumstances because it is anchored in the hope and love that God bestows upon us. Rejoicing is the outward expression of joy. It manifests in celebration, singing, and actions that reflect our inner joy.
In today’s reading from the Prophet Zephaniah, we hear a call to rejoice: "Shout for joy, O daughter Zion!" The people of Israel, once burdened by judgment and fear, are reminded of God's promise. He has removed their judgment; their enemies have been turned away. This is not just a moment of happiness—it is an invitation to rejoice in the reality of God’s presence. "The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst." Joy flows from the assurance that God is with us, promising salvation and renewal.
In the Responsorial Psalm, we proclaim, "Cry out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and Holy One of Israel." Here, the psalmist echoes the sentiment of Zephaniah, calling us to recognize and celebrate God’s abiding presence in our lives. Joy invites us into a relationship of gratitude and praise.
St. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, urges us to "Rejoice in the Lord always." This is not a call merely to find happiness in life's circumstances but to cultivate a spirit of rejoicing that is rooted in God. Paul emphasizes that the Lord is near, and this presence brings peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is linked directly to our joyful relationship with God, which transcends our earthly struggles.
Finally, in the Gospel of Luke, we encounter John the Baptist, who calls the people to conversion and transformation. Their joy is not just an internal feeling; it compels them to act—sharing with those in need, being fair and just in their dealings. This interplay between joy and action shows us that true joy inspires us to live out our faith actively, for this is what true conversion entails.
In our beloved founder Saint Francis of Assisi, we see someone who truly embodied this joy rooted in the love of God. Francis lived in radical simplicity, choosing a life of poverty and servitude.
His joy was not found in material possessions but in seeking and committing himself to an intimate relationship with the Creator by accomplishing his will more and more in daily living. He embraced the beauty of creation and was known for his affection for all living things, seeing God in everything around him. “All creatures are my brothers and sisters,” was the spirituality he imparted to others. Francis's joyful spirit compelled him to serve the marginalized and care for the poor, reminding us that joy is not simply an emotion but a transformative force that moves us to share God’s love with the world. Like Francis, may our hearts be open to the transformative power of joy, leading us closer to Christ, the source of all joy.
And may Almighty God, continue to bless you throughout this Advent season as we move into week three of our journey, through the intercession of our Blessed Mother; in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. May the joyful presence of Christ remain with you always. Amen.
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