The Third Sunday of Advent is traditionally called Gaudete Sunday, a day of rejoicing amid our Advent waiting. The rose candle is lit on the Advent wreath, reminding us that joy is already shining through the shadows of expectation. Yet, today’s Gospel from Matthew 11:2–11 presents us with a surprising kind of joy—one born not from comfort or success, but from faith in the midst of doubt.
The Gospel for the Second Sunday of Advent (Matthew 3:1–12) introduces us to John the Baptist, the fiery prophet who cries out in the wilderness: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” His message is both urgent and timeless. Advent is a season of joyful waiting, but John reminds us that waiting for the Lord also means preparing our hearts for His coming. The path to Christmas is not only lined with lights and decorations; it is also marked by repentance, conversion, and renewal.
The season of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year, a time of hope, expectation, and spiritual renewal. It invites us to look forward—to the coming of Christ at Christmas, but also to His second coming at the end of time. In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls us to stay awake and be ready. His words are not meant to frighten us but to awaken us from spiritual complacency.
The Visitation is a powerful reminder of how faith leads to mission. Mary, carrying Jesus, journeys to serve Elizabeth, and their encounter overflows with joy and gratitude. This story invites us to prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming by sharing His love with others. May we follow Mary’s example of faith-filled service and joyful witness.
SCJ Philippines Region 