The desert shall rejoice, and blossom abundantly
The readings of this Gaudete (‘rejoice’) Sunday are full of hopeful joy in anticipation of Christ’s arrival.
This will bring an end to all sorrow and mourning (First Reading), because through Christ will come salvation and new life (Psalm).
In the Second Reading, St James calls us to be ready for this arrival. The Lord is near, but to perceive the signs of his coming requires from us both patience and openness of eyes and ears (Gospel).
On this third Sunday of Advent and during this coming week, let us imitate the desert coming to bloom. By eagerly receiving the Lord’s lifegiving and transformational grace, we will have the strength and courage to blossom abundantly in all the areas of our life.
As Pilgrims of Hope towards the close of this Jubilee Year, we pray to be bringers of joy, life and consolation to those who are feeling bowed down by the burdens of life.
