THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH

 

Homily for the Third Sunday of Advent, Year C

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Bible Texts: Zephaniah 3:14-18a; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:10-18

Dear friend in Christ, today, the third Sunday of Advent, we celebrate Gaudete Sunday; a day set apart in Advent to emphasize joy as we await the coming of Christ. The rose vestment worn by the priest today and pink candle that is lighted on the Advent wreath symbolize this joy, a sign of hope and gladness amidst the penance and preparation of the season. But what is the nature of this joy? How can we even experience joy in the face of many prevailing life’s challenges in our today’s world? The readings today teach us that true joy is not tied to fleeting circumstances but rooted in the unchanging presence of God.

In the first reading, we find the prophet Zephaniah speaking to a people who had endured the devastation of exile and the threat of foreign powers. These verses are filled with jubilant exclamations: “Shout for joy, daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, Israel!” This exuberance emerges from the assurance that God has removed the judgments against his people and is now dwelling in their midst (Zephaniah 3:15).

This joy is not based on temporary circumstances but on the profound reality of God’s saving presence. God is not a distant observer but actively intervenes in the lives of his people. Zephaniah describes God as a mighty Savior who not only rescues but also delights in his people: “He will rejoice over you with gladness and renew you in his love” (Zephaniah 3:17). This prophecy was a message of hope given when Israel was in a state of fear and uncertainty. Similarly, in our lives, God calls us to rejoice, not because our circumstances are perfect, but because he is with us and working for our salvation.

In the second reading, we find St. Paul writing to the Philippians in these words: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). This command to rejoice is remarkable given that Paul was writing these words while imprisoned. His joy was not rooted in his circumstances but in the nearness of the Lord: “The Lord is near” (Philippians 4:5). Paul gives us a roadmap to sustain this joy. First, he tells us to bring everything - our worries, hopes, and fears - to God in prayer: “In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God” (Philippians 4:6). This act of entrusting our lives to God opens our hearts to his peace, described as “surpassing all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).

In our world of anxiety, fear, tribulation and hardship, where challenges and uncertainties often overshadow joy, Paul’s words remind us that joy is a fruit of faith. It is the quiet confidence that God is in control, even when we cannot see the way forward. Paul’s words remind us that joy is not the absence of difficulties but the presence of God’s peace. This call challenges us today. How often do we allow anxiety, fear, or frustration to overshadow our faith?

The Gospel gives us a practical framework for living out joy. John the Baptist addressed the crowds who asked him: “What should we do?” (Luke 3:10). His answers are simple yet profound. First, share with others: “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none” (Luke 3:11). Generosity is a source of joy, as it connects us to the needs of others and reflects God’s giving nature. Second, practice honesty: To tax collectors, he says: “Stop collecting more than what is prescribed” (Luke 3:13). A life of integrity and fairness brings inner peace and joy. Third, live with contentment: To soldiers, he advised: “Be satisfied with your wages” (Luke 3:14). Contentment frees us from the restlessness that steals our joy.

Dear friend, true joy flows from a life lived in harmony with God’s purposes. This joy is not merely emotional but deeply spiritual - a joy that comes from knowing we are on the path of holiness. The joy we celebrate today is not a denial of life’s struggles but a recognition that, in Christ, we have hope, peace, and purpose. As we journey closer to Christmas, may this joy fill our hearts, overflow into our actions, and draw others to the light of Christ. Amen.