3rd Sunday of Advent(Gaudete) - Year A - Rejoice, The Lord Is Near & “Seven Songs for Christmas”
On the Third Week of Advent, the Church invites us to rejoice: it is Gaudete Sunday, from the Latin word gaudete, meaning “Rejoice.” The opening antiphon of today’s liturgy captures this beautifully: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near.”
On our Advent wreaths, the third candle—the rose candle—is lit, a symbol of joy in our journey toward Christmas. Amid the deep violet tones of Advent’s penitential waiting, this pink flame reminds us that the coming of the Lord is close at hand. St. Paul’s words inspire this joyful anticipation: joy not as fleeting excitement, but as a deep, abiding confidence that God is faithful to His promises. Joy is the thread that weaves through all of Advent’s prayers and readings—and, indeed, through the very heart of the Christian life.
One of the best-loved Christmas carols, “Joy to the World” echoes this same message. Written by Isaac Watts in 1719 and paired with music from Handel’s Messiah, it calls the whole world to welcome the King who comes to rule with truth and grace. That universal invitation to rejoice is at the heart of our celebration this weekend.
We see this joy first in Mary’s response to the angel’s greeting: “Rejoice, so highly favored!” Her Son will be the long-awaited Messiah, and her heart overflows with praise: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” Mary’s joy cannot be contained—she shares it freely with her cousin Elizabeth, and through her witness, with the entire world. This same joy fills the skies above Bethlehem when the angels announce to the shepherds: “Do not be afraid. I bring you news of great joy.” That message echoes still—it is meant for us today. The birth of Jesus is good news not just once in history, but always, for every heart open to His presence.
Many will remember the words once prayed after the Our Father: “As we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.” Though that phrase is no longer used in the same form, its spirit remains the essence of Advent. We are called to wait—not with fear or anxiety—but in joyful hope. Why? Because the Lord is truly near. Like Mary, we are invited to share our joy with others, especially with those who find this season difficult or heavy. There are many around us—perhaps even close to us—who need a reminder of God’s nearness and love. Our kindness, our smiles, our time, and our prayer can become the ways we share Christ’s joy.
As we continue through these final days of Advent, may we keep the pink candle burning brightly in our hearts. May we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. And may our joy, rooted in the nearness of the Lord, bring light to those we meet along the way.
In honor of the upcoming Christmas season, we would like to share our latest compilation video, “Seven Songs for Christmas”, a beautiful compilation of Christmas Hymns and Songs to celebrate the upcoming season of the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ!
Video can be watched by clicking here or by clicking on the thumbnail below.
