2024/12/15 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Third Sunday of Advent
- Lori Howard, Coordinator of Sacramental Prep
In this third week of Advent, we are invited into a season of joyful anticipation and preparation as we await the arrival of Christ—not just as the humble child in Bethlehem, but also as the promised King who will return in glory. The readings for this Sunday offer messages of hope, peace, joy, and a call to personal transformation as we ready our hearts for His coming.
Zephaniah's prophecy was given during a time when the people of Israel were facing judgment for their disobedience, yet it concludes with a message of hope and joy. In this passage, Zephaniah urges the people to rejoice and sing, for God has promised to rescue and restore them: “The King of Israel, the Lord, is with you; never again will you fear any harm.” In Jesus, God comes to live among us. This promise of His presence is central to the Advent message.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians contains an invitation to rejoice and experience God’s peace. The Philippians were facing persecution and difficulties, yet Paul encourages them to find their joy in the Lord: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Advent is a season of waiting and waiting can often stir up anxiety. Yet, Paul encourages us to bring our worries to God with gratitude. We are reminded that true peace doesn’t come from controlling our circumstances, but from trusting in God’s perfect control.
Finally, in today’s Gospel reading from Luke, John the Baptist urges people to repent in preparation for the arrival of the Messiah. His message is unmistakable: Christ’s coming calls for a transformation in the way we live: "Don't collect more than what is required." John warns the tax collectors against greed and exploitation, urging them to live with honesty and fairness. For us, Advent is a time to reflect on our own lives: How do we manage the blessings God has entrusted to us? Do we hoard or share? Do we exploit or serve others?
This Sunday’s readings—Zephaniah’s song of joy, Paul’s call to rejoice in peace, and John’s call to repentance—highlight the many aspects and emotions of Advent. During this season, let us rejoice in the salvation God offers, trust in His peace, and prepare our hearts through repentance and transformation. May we live in the hope of Christ’s coming, both as the child in the manger and as the King who will come again in glory.