Reflection for December 15, 2024

Third Sunday of Advent (C)

Zephaniah 3:14-18a | Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6 | Philippians 4:4-7 | Luke 3:10-18

We are rapidly approaching the celebration of Christmas Day. The Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday, derives its name from the Latin word Gaudete, meaning "rejoice." This designation originates from the opening antiphon of the Mass, drawn from Philippians 4:4-5: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice! The Lord is near.” As we light the rose-colored candle on this special Sunday, the Church fervently calls us to embrace joy, affirming that we have every reason to rejoice.
When Emil's father came home, he broke the news that he might have to declare bankruptcy because his business partner had stolen money from their accounting firm. In response, Emil's mother went out, pawned some jewelry, and bought food for an incredible feast. The rest of the family criticized her for it, but she simply said, "Now is the time to find joy, especially when we need it most—not later." Her bold move lifted the family's spirits and gave them a fresh sense of hope.

In the first reading, the prophet Zephaniah exhorts the captive Israelites to yearn for the joy that comes from God’s presence. He urges them to lift their gaze beyond the pain of judgment and exile, to transcend the trials of this life, and to focus on the ultimate purpose of God’s plan. This divine plan is not defined by sorrow, devastation, or judgment, but rather by joy. However, this raises a compelling question: How can we rejoice amidst fear, disappointment, and despair? At first glance, such rejoicing might seem inappropriate or even insensitive. In everyday language, "joy" and "happiness" are often used interchangeably, yet they possess distinct meanings. Happiness is circumstantial, often dependent on external factors or other people. For instance, one may feel happy while attending a BTS concert, reading an engaging book, receiving a promotion, or enjoying other pleasurable experiences. Joy, however, transcends circumstances. It is a profound sense of fulfillment and wholeness that stems from knowing and trusting God. True joy is rooted in discovering our deepest identity in our relationship with Him. Rejoicing is not about ignoring life's difficulties but about trusting in the One who reigns sovereign over them. Genuine faith means believing in God and His promises, especially when the path seems dark. Zephaniah calls us to look beyond our present challenges toward the coming of the Messiah. When the Lord arrives, He not only becomes the source of joy but also brings it to His people. Regardless of what surrounds us—be it family and relational struggles, health crises, financial hardships, persecution, natural disasters, or even bereavement—this divine joy remains steadfast. It is a joy that perseveres through all circumstances, grounded in the unwavering presence of God.

I love the story of Richard, a second grader from Poblacion, Makati. One morning on his way to school, he scraped his arm on a bus seat, and it started bleeding all over his clothes. Things didn’t get better—he forgot to pack his homework, so his teacher scolded him. Then, during recess, he got hit in the mouth and lost two teeth. After school, he slipped on some ice and ended up breaking his wrist. While heading to the hospital, Richard reached into his pocket with his good hand and pulled something out. Curious, his dad asked what it was. Smiling, Richard said, “It’s a five-peso coin! I found it when I fell. It’s the first one I’ve ever found. This is the best day of my life!”

The passage from our second reading highlights a context of reflection on those who, having begun their journey of faith with great zeal and perseverance, now seem to falter. These individuals, who once labored for the Gospel with determination, appear to be reconsidering their commitment. Perhaps they are reckoning with the cost of discipleship and hesitating, even contemplating retreat. Paul introduces the idea that joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but an intentional attitude, one over which we have considerable control. A phrase that resonates profoundly—though its origin escapes me—is: “Life wouldn’t be so hard if we didn’t expect it to be so easy.” While we cannot dictate how challenging or effortless life may be, we hold the power to shape our response to it. If you assume others are conspiring against you, it might begin to feel true. If you believe the world is adversarial, you may find evidence to confirm it. If you think nothing ever works in your favor, it may seem so. Negative assumptions about friends, parish communities, or clergy often reinforce a perspective focused on flaws, leaving little room to perceive goodness. Such negativity stems from a fixed attitude, which limits one’s ability to recognize the positive. Joy, as Paul implies, is a deliberate choice. Instead of dwelling on what is wrong, one can actively seek out the good. Choose joy. Look for the bright spots—they are always there waiting to be found.
There’s a story about a boy whose father taught him that the key to happiness was accumulating wealth. Taking his father’s advice to heart, the boy worked hard in school and eventually became one of the richest people in town. But despite all his wealth, he still felt unhappy. Seeking answers, he approached a wise old man for guidance. The old man gave him simple yet profound advice: “Learn to share what you have, because true joy and happiness come from giving.” The boy took the advice to heart, and for the first time, he finally experienced the happiness he had been searching for.

The figure of John the Baptist, introduced in last week’s readings, is brought into sharper focus in today's Gospel. The crowds approach John with the question, "What should we do?" In response, John underscores that genuine repentance in the kingdom of God is marked by tangible acts of generosity toward the poor. This call extends beyond merely possessing a "generous heart" or intention; it demands concrete actions of compassion, sharing, participation, and solidarity. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, our actions should mirror the love and selflessness exemplified by the Savior. True Christmas spirit is found not in receiving but in giving. It blossoms when we cultivate kindness toward one another, extend love to those in need, soften our hearts, forgive adversaries, remember friends, and align our lives with God’s will. The essence of Christmas illuminates the soul, inspiring us to prioritize people over possessions and find joy in serving others. Indeed, the Gospel’s message can be distilled into five simple yet profound words: “You did it to me.” Let us strive to give as the Savior gave, embracing a life of selfless love and service.

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