Third Sunday of Advent ‘A’

This Sunday’s readings invite us to rejoice as we prepare to celebrate Christmas, recognizing  the ongoing presence of Jesus in our lives. The lighting of the rose candle on the Advent wreath  and the priest’s rose vestments are outward signs of this joy - reminding us that Christ’s coming  is a reason for deep hope and celebration. 

In the First Reading, the Prophet Isaiah encourages the Jewish people who are exiled and  suffering in Babylon, to lift their spirits, because God promises to free them from captivity and  lead them home. Even in difficult times, Isaiah insists that God’s love brings new beginnings and  real reasons for joy. 

In the Second Reading, the Apostle James urges the early Christians to stay patient and  hopeful as they wait for Jesus’ return. He reassures them that good things are coming, even if  they must wait, and encourages them to hold onto joy and faithfulness in the meantime. 

In the Gospel, we see John the Baptist struggling with doubt as he is in prison. Jesus responds  by urging John to let go of his expectations and to trust in the signs of healing and hope  happening all around him. These are proof that He really is the Messiah Isaiah spoke about.  Then, Jesus honors John as the greatest of prophets, someone who prepared the way and  stayed true to his calling. Jesus invites everyone listening to rejoice in God’s faithfulness and in  the courage shown by John. 

These readings remind us that even people with strong faith like John the Baptist, sometimes  struggle with doubt or feel uncertain. When our own faith feels tested, we can remember that  Christianity is rooted in trusting Jesus and the teachings He shared with us, and in the authority He gave to the Church. Learning our faith more deeply can help us navigate doubts and find  peace. 

Jesus told John’s disciples, “Go and tell others what you hear and see.” As we prepare for  Christmas, we are called to recognize Jesus being “reborn” in our hearts - deepening our love,  our willingness to forgive, and our spirit of generous service. That same commandment applies  to us today: we are called to share with others what God is doing in our lives. The joy, grace,  and mercy we receive are meant to be shared, not kept to ourselves. 

Finally, these readings remind us to open our hearts, be patient, and trust in God's transforming  presence. Advent calls us to change the way we think about God, ourselves, and the world (the  Bible calls it “metanoia”). God is with us in everyday life, and if we give Him room, He will  transform us. Let Advent be a season where we prepare our hearts to recognize and welcome  Christ anew.