Rejoicing
Readings - Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-18 Psalm 34 and Matthew 21:28-32
“Repent and believe” Matthew 21:32
Reflection
Yesterday, the third Sunday in Advent, is considered by some to be Gaudete Sunday. The word "gaudete" comes from the imperative form of the Latin verb "gaudeo," which means to rejoice or take delight in. In Latin, the imperative form of a verb is a direct command. The third candle (the pink candle in some traditions) extols us to
“rejoice”.
At the time of Zephaniah, the worship of false gods and the immorality that accompanied this worship had corrupted Jerusalem. The text preceding this joyful reading is a prophecy of God's punishment and judgment. It is so easy to become discouraged by all that happens around us that if we are not careful our attitudes and lives can mirror those of the world and not of God.
When did you last speak praise of God in your prayer time? When was the last time your prayer time was full of thankfulness rather than prayer of petition? Have you tried thanking God for the person that constantly frustrates and hurts you?
When we come before God in repentance seeking a change within us - the response is not just one of acceptance but that of deep joy. God rejoices over us. God rejoices over us with singing - Zephaniah 3:14.
Prayer
Almighty God,
In humility and in my humanness
I simply offer myself to you.
Amen
Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those who are worried and anxious. For those who are hurt by waiting for news.
We remember those who cannot rejoice.
