# Rejoice! The Lord Is Near – Reflections on the Third Sunday of Advent
*2014-12-13*

> Bill Young reflects on the joy of the Third Sunday of Advent, drawing on Pope Francis’ words and the Scripture passage from 1 Thessalonians, and urges listeners to share that joy with others.

## Opening Prayer and Scripture

Welcome to Prayer and Lunch. On this Third Sunday of Advent, we turn to 1 Thessalonians 5:16‑18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit.” This passage sets the tone for today’s celebration of joy.

## The Theme of Joy in Advent

Pope Francis reminds us in *Our Advent Journey with Christ* to “Rejoice, the Lord is near.” Advent is not a time of gloom; it is a season of eager anticipation. The Lord’s coming—both the first coming in Bethlehem and the promised second coming—brings the Good News to all people. The Church is called to be a joyful home, not a refuge for the sad, though it welcomes those who are sorrowful and helps them discover the joy of God’s love.

## Living Out Joy Amidst Difficulty

Even when life feels like a desert—when we are weak, fearful, or facing hardship—we are invited to strengthen our “feeble knees” and “weak hands.” God’s mercy is ever‑present, giving us courage to move forward. We are not meant to be passive or discouraged; instead, we are called to trust that God is with us, empowering us to persevere.

## A Prayer for Sharing Joy

Let us pray: “Jesus, help me share my joy with others. May the light of your coming fill my heart so that I may be a source of hope and gratitude to those around me.”

*Advent invites us to rejoice, for the Lord is near, and that joy compels us to share God’s love with the world.*