What Should We Do?

Third Sunday of Advent

12 December 2021 

 

First Reading: ZEP 3:14-18a

Responsorial Psalm: IS 12:2-3, 4, 5-6

Second Reading: PHIL 4:4-7

Gospel: LK 3:10-18

 

Reflection

By: Anabelle Payod-Balla

 

"Rejoicing is an affirmation of God's presence." - Anabelle Balla

"Thank You, Lord!"

I often hear this said softly or out loud when someone is happy over something. A genuine rejoicing or prayer of gratitude uttered in the spur of the moment. Short but powerful.

"Father, please grant us overwhelming love, peace, joy and inspiration." This is one of the prayers I try to pray everyday. Who doesn't want to be in this state as often as possible? You too, may be wishing a life full of love, joy, peace, and inspiration as well. Is this possible even when we go through some trials and even grief? I say, yes!

When I look forward to better days, I believe that is rejoicing in hope. When I pray for His help, that is rejoicing for His power and mercy. And even when in pain, I rejoice in God's comfort and loving embrace as I call on Him. When confused, disgruntled, and angry, I rejoice in His counsel when I seek His wisdom and enlightenment.

So what should we do as we wait for Jesus' coming? The verses below said it all.

⁴Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. ⁵Let your reasonableness^[a] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; ⁶ do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Prayer

Father, please allow us to live in gladness, in thanksgiving, in worship, and praises to You. Allow us to rejoice in Your love, in Your mercy, in Your power, in Your miracles and abundant provisions. For in rejoicing we affirm that You are indeed our loving Almighty God in heaven. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.