3rd Sunday of Advent (C)

Zeph 3:14-18; Phil 4:4-7; Lk 3:10-18

The third Sunday of advent is called “Gaudete Sunday” (Gaudete is the Latin word for “rejoice”, which is taken from the first word of today’s entrance antiphon: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near.”). The liturgy is calling us to be joyful because the day of the Lord’s coming is drawing near.

Some of us, for some reasons, may not be thrilled that the season of Christmas is fast approaching. For what good is Christmas if we are poor, or sick, or broken-hearted. We have learned to believe that Christmas is only for the moneyed, for the healthy and for lovers. Somehow we have forgotten that Christmas, primarily, is for the less fortunate among us.

Today’s gospel encourages us to do something so that Christ’s coming would be meaningful for us and for others. The people, who had heard John the Baptist prophesying about the coming of the Messiah, asked him, “What must we do?” They wanted to make sure that the Anointed One would find them well prepared for the great feast of God’s reign. The answers of John provide us with some important tips for a colorful celebration of Christmas.

First: “He, who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise” (Lk 3:11). The season of advent invites us to consider others who are less fortunate. We are called to provide assistance – be it spiritual, emotional, or material – to a neighbor in need. John does not ask that we give away everything; he only asks that we share what we have or that we practice compassion. Thus, it would be meaningful if during this season we will try to identify people who are in great need of our help. After doing this, we will try to do what we can to make their life a little bit easier.

Second: “Collect no more than is appointed you” (Lk 3:13). John’s admonition to the tax collectors is a way of telling us that we are to deal with others fairly and justly. We have to use prudently whatever authority we have over others, keeping in mind that it is always wrong to take advantage of people’s vulnerability. The season of advent provides us with the opportunity to make reparations for whatever injustice we have done to others.

And third: “Rob no one by violence or by false accusation, and be content with your wages” (Lk 3:14). John’s advice to the soldiers is also a good reminder that our professions must be practiced with honor and integrity. It is not right that we use our position or authority to intimidate others or to enrich ourselves. The season of advent challenges us to remain humble and to use our power to serve the good of others.

Saint Paul is urging us to be “always happy in the Lord” (Phil 4:4). Disciples will find happiness “in the Lord”, not in material things or worldly honor. The joy of Christians is in living fully the Christian life – in being generous, fair and righteous in the eyes of God and of people.

Once upon a time, a seeker went from land to land to discover an authentic religion. Finally, the seeker found a group of extraordinary fame. They were known for the goodness of their lives and for the singleness of their hearts and for the sincerity of their service.

“I see everything you do,” the seeker said, “and I'm impressed by it. But, before I become your disciple, I have a question to ask: Does your God work miracles?”

“Well,” the disciples said to the seeker, “It all depends on what you mean by a miracle. Some people call it a miracle when God does the will of people. We call it a miracle when people do the will of God.”

(The story is from an unknown author)