Reflection on the 3rd Sunday of Advent
Beloved in the Lord, today we celebrate the 3rd Sunday of Advent, commonly known as Joy Sunday. While this theme appears explicitly in the first two readings and the psalm, in the Gospel it is more subtle. Yet the question asked by the tax collectors and the soldiers is related to it.
It expresses not only their trust in John the Baptist, but also their desire and readiness to adapt their lives to his message.
How interesting it is to see publicans (public sinners) and soldiers (whose taste for violence is well known) also approach John to ask him what they should do. In other words, anyone can do it, anyone can ask this question. In fact, any human group, any corporation can find a way to serve the Lord.
The question put to John is a step towards conversion that will already bring joy in heaven, for “there will be joy in heaven over one sinner who is converted” (Lk 15:7). However, we must not stop there, we must not let our hands weaken, because the Lord remains a faithful companion who accompanies us.
Can we recognise the experiences in our lives that challenge us and our way of doing things? Do we know who to ask about what we should be doing? Do we have the courage to ask? Are we ready for conversion by accepting the directives given to us by the Lord?
May the Lord give us the power to create joy in those around us, but above all in heaven through our conversion.
God bless you all!
