Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 11, 2-11
When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ,
he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question,
“Are you the one who is to come,
or should we look for another?”
Jesus said to them in reply,
“Go and tell John what you hear and see:
the blind regain their sight,
the lame walk,
lepers are cleansed,
the deaf hear,
the dead are raised,
and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.
And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”
As they were going off,
Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John,
“What did you go out to the desert to see?
A reed swayed by the wind?
Then what did you go out to see?
Someone dressed in fine clothing?
Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces.
Then why did you go out? To see a prophet?
Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
This is the one about whom it is written:
Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;
he will prepare your way before you.
Amen, I say to you,
among those born of women
there has been none greater than John the Baptist;
yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Sunday of Joy (Gaudete Sunday)
1. The Messiah’s Works. It’s truly meaningful when people recognize us and seek us out because of what we do, rather than what we say. At times, we may be tempted to boast and tell everyone about our actions, but that’s not necessary. Our role is to sow seeds in the world so others can benefit from the shade of the tree we’ve planted. You just need to keep moving forward and doing good, and over time, your efforts will be appreciated.
2. Proclaim. The message Jesus asks us to share is that He came to heal and give hope. Today, both you and I are invited to continue this mission. In your everyday life, you’re called to heal, uplift, and inspire hope in others. Consider the hope you offer when you devote yourself wholeheartedly to your children. Think about the hope you bring when you put your phone aside to spend quality time with your father or mother. Reflect on the hope you give when you take your wife out for dinner, dedicating time to her as you did during your dating days. Think of the healing and renewal you bring when you help someone in need during your day.
3. Messenger. We are God’s messengers, and we are called to share joy. CHRIST IS COMING! and He desires to be with us always. Hold onto your joy—don’t let the spark of God within you be dimmed by sadness. Keep moving forward, because with even one joyful person like you, we can help change the world.
The third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday, a name taken from the Latin word meaning “Rejoice,” which opens the antiphon of Mass for this day. In the liturgy, the Church reminds us that Jesus is coming soon, He is coming into your life to renew your heart. We are invited to “rejoice always,” living a joy that is deeply rooted in prayer.
Always remember that something good is on the way!
God bless you, be with you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
