COMING CLOSER TO CHRIST:
The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday, the Sunday of rejoicing. That’s why today’s readings mention the word “joy” twelve times. Jesus didn’t come to intimidate and oppress us; he came to save us. Salvation, friendship with God, the fullness and security of living in communion with our Creator and Redeemer. This is the message of Christmas, the message we have been thinking about during these weeks of Advent…..“rejoice in the Lord

ALWAYS.” SERVING OTHERS:
What are some differences between the emotion of happiness and Christian joy? How can we maintain joy in our lives even in the face of sorrow or hardship? Do you have an example of a time when you were able to rejoice even when you didn’t feel happy? What place in our lives needs Christian joy?