Someone shared the story about a forgetful man at the doctor’s clinic. “Doctor, he said, I often forget things and it’s getting worse. What shall I do? The doctor replied, “ Well, first things first, and the first thing to do now is to pay me first before we start anything.
During the time of John the Baptist some people asked him; “ What should we do?” He told the crowds to share their cloaks and food with those who don’t have, to the tax collectors he told them to stop overtaxing, and to the soldiers to stop practicing extortion and be satisfied with their wages. ( Luke 3: 10-14).
Third Sunday of Advent is called “ Gaudete Sunday” which means, Rejoice! Let’s begin this week with the spirit of Joy in our hearts and each day for that matter. Everyday may not be joyful with the problems and concerns we’re facing, but to think that we’re still up and around, enjoying the affection and support of our families and friends, should be a reason to rejoice and thank God for the gift of life and love. For the less fortunate we pray that God may alleviate their pain and suffering. May the Infant Jesus born poor and forlorn in Bethlehem, be the light and hope to all people.
Let’s take to heart John the Baptist’s answers to the questions of the people of his time, “what should we do? They are also addressed to us in our time. They don’t simply refer to external considerations but also to our internal disposition and transformation.
Our preparation for Christmas and for the final coming of the Lord should affect our attitude towards others especially the underprivileged and needy, that it’s our duty to care for them. What should we do? John the Baptist tells us to forgive and obliterate hatred and anger from our heart. Foster the spirit of hospitality and wholesome relationship and do away with racism and bigotry. Let’s be happy and contented with what God has given us and not be ambitious for what’s beyond our reach. Do not take advantage of people’s weakness and goodness, but exercise sense of propriety.
Let’s be serious in our desire to change our way of life for the better. Our joy now looking forward to the celebration Christmas should include our anticipation of the coming of the Lord to bring us peace and prosperity. ( Jer. 33:9). It’s the most wonderful time of the year, let all rejoice, Gaudete!
On the flip side, someone said that, inner peace begins the moment youchoose not to follow another person or event to control you emotions. Someday you will look back and know exactly why it had to happen. Just because you’re struggling doesn’t mean you’re falling. Keep going and don’t worry about your speed. You’re making progress, even if it doesn’t seem like it. Forward is forward no matter how slow. Once you learn to appreciate the small victories, there is no need for a finish line. Have confidence that if you have done a little thing well, you can do a bigger thing well too. Amen on that folks!!
St. Faustina wrote Jesus’ words; ” I cannot punish even the greatest sinner if he makes an appeal to my compassion”. ( Diary no. 1146).
Pray the Divine Mercy every 3 p.m. Daily pray the Chaplet of Mercy and the Holy Rosary for peace in our families and in the world. Inviting you to our Healing Mass every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at San Vicente Church.