Sunday, December 17th, was the third week of Advent and we light the third candle, the rose/pink candle which is the often referred to as the Shepherd’s candle. It is also Gaudete (derived from the Latin word (gaudium) Sunday, which means JOY. We are nearing the end of Advent and we reflect this week on REJOICING because we are closing in on the day of the birth of Jesus.

Of course, we are all looking forward to our family and friend’s Christmas celebrations and all the traditions we hold dear. There is also great JOY in recalling the birth of Jesus on the first Christmas. We must be patient for the next few days in anticipation of this great day.

I recently listened to a podcast by Matthew Kelly, Dynamic Catholic, who defined being patient like this: “ It is the knowing what to do while we are waiting for God to answer our prayers”. I like this definition as it truly is about what we do while we wait. Do we become impatient and give up the cause or do we stay the course and wait with patience until God sends the answer our prayers? Patience indeed is not easy, especially in today’s culture which pushes for immediate gratification in all arenas of life. However, I submit to you that patience in continuing to pray is a better answer to the waiting. (I say this as a reminder to myself as well).

The next Sunday will be the fourth Sunday of Advent and it is also Christmas Eve. We will indeed Rejoice on this final day of our Advent season.

Blessings,

PJP