In my God is the joy of my soul; for he has clothed me with a robe of salvation.
Today’s Reading: Is 61:1-2A, 10-11
“…The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,
because the LORD has anointed me;
he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor,
to heal the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives
and release to the prisoners,
to announce a year of favor from the LORD
and a day of vindication by our God….”
Reflection: Today is the pink candle of Gaudate Sunday (Rejoice Sunday), from St. Paul’s advice in today’s second reading: Rejoice always. He goes on to tell the Christians in the ancient Greek city of Thessalonica, “Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” We have so much to be thankful for, even during difficult times.
Scientists have studied thankfulness and agree that it has an incredible effect not only on our health, but on our overall lives. Is it any wonder that our lifegiving celebration at the altar is called Eucharist? That’s Greek for “thanksgiving.” So rejoice! Give thanks! God is calling! Christmas is coming!
Let us pray: Thank you, God! Put your song in my heart today. Let me be glad to be close to you, let me be glad for all of the good things in life, even when there are hard things. Help me to rejoice always!