The theme for this Sunday’s readings, December 14, is rejoice in the Lord always. This Sunday is the Third Sunday in Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. Let’s take a look at the readings and their meanings.
Gospel Text – Matthew 11:2-11:
“When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”
“As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
First Reading – Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
This passage paints a vivid picture of God’s restoration. The desert blossoms, the weak are strengthened, and the blind, deaf, and lame are healed. It culminates in the redeemed returning to Zion with everlasting joy. It is a vision of transformation and renewal, where God’s presence turns desolation into abundance and sorrow into joy.
Second Reading – James 5:7-10
James exhorts believers to patience and steadfastness as they await the Lord’s coming. He uses the farmer waiting for rain and the prophets enduring suffering as examples. The focus is on endurance in faith, resisting grumbling, and trusting that God’s justice and salvation are near.
Gospel Reading – Matthew 11:2-11
John the Baptist, imprisoned, questions whether Jesus is truly the Messiah. Jesus responds by pointing to the signs: the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor receive good news—directly echoing Isaiah’s prophecy. Jesus then praises John as the greatest prophet, yet notes that even the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater. He confirms his messianic mission through deeds of healing and liberation, fulfilling Isaiah’s vision and affirming John’s prophetic role.
The Catholic View
As we enter the third week of Advent, we continue to wait in watchful hope for the Lord’s coming at Christmas. All three readings speak to the hope in God’s salvation. The signs of the kingdom are apparent in God’s healing, justice, joy, and renewal. All are the marks of God’s reign breaking into human history. During this season of Advent, we are called to:
- Trust in God’s promises at all times.
- Practice patience and endurance as we await Jesus’ return.
- Recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s saving work.
All the readings speak of expectation, fulfillment, and encouragement—reminding us that God’s kingdom is both already present in Christ’s works and still to be fully realized.
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Peace
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