God permits the great mystery of our salvation and even asks for human cooperation in his divine plans. Each person has a role to play in God's plan of salvation. We must learn to wait and meet Christ in our openness to others. 

The third Sunday of Advent is also called Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete is a Latin word that means "rejoice." Our joy and happiness are not just a feeling, but it's found in our actions. Jesus reminds us that God calls each of us to salvation. There is an African-American song that says, "Joy, joy, God's great joy, sweet, beautiful Soul-saving Joy in my soul!" This joy is not passive, but it's found in the active service to others.

The call of Advent challenges us to be Christ for each other. For Christians, this is the most excellent source of joy. When we welcome the stranger or give bread to the hungry, we prepare a place for Christ to be born again. This joy is only seen through the eyes of our hearts. We must learn to see beyond the limits we put on offering hope for others.

When we have emptied ourselves of our attachments in this life, we can wait to receive Christ more fully. We must discover those things that hold us back from meeting the Lord. When we can let go, we can experience true joy. We empty ourselves to receive Jesus, who brings new life, joy, and hope. John the Baptist is reminding us that we must put our faith into action in the service of others.

God calls us to live together as brothers and sisters. We must release our fears as we wait for the Lord's coming. We know that God will supply everything we need on our faith journey. God will accompany us through all our experiences. In my culture, joyful worship celebrations and music help to create community. It is in this shared joy and support that no one is left alone.


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