From Fr. Eric Asamoah

 

Today is Gaudete Sunday, Sunday of Joy. The term Gaudete simply means “to rejoice.” This Sunday reminds us that even while we wait, we can be joyful. We pause to smile, sing, and take heart.

All our readings today exalt us to be happy, and joyful as we wait for the Lord’s coming. The prophet Isaiah in the first reading captures the festive mood of this season encouraging the Jewish exiles returning from Babylon to ‘rejoice’ because their God is coming with lots of good packages like justice, liberation, and peace. Above all, He is ready to visit us personally if we dispose of ourselves well.

The psalmist equally taps on the same string: the Lord keeps faith forever, secures justice and gives food to the hungry. Therefore, this is a time for us to make ourselves ready for Him. It is a time to be cheerful and a time to celebrate joyfully.

This fits with Matthew’s focus on Jesus as the promised Messiah. John the Baptist had been waiting for the Messiah. Even though he was in prison, he still had hope and wanted to know if Jesus was truly the one, he had been waiting for. Jesus’ answer to John’s messengers is simple; the blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk. These are the very signs Isaiah spoke about long ago. Jesus is the fulfillment of those promises, bringing healing and hope to a weary world.

True Christian authenticity is shown not just in what we believe but in what we do. He encourages us to prepare for the coming of Jesus by living out our faith through actions that reflect love and service.

John is honored, but Jesus makes it clear that something greater is now happening. The passage helps us see that the coming of Christ changes everything, and those who recognize it are truly blessed.

This Sunday points us toward joy. Not because everything is perfect, but because Jesus is near. His coming brings healing, justice, and peace. Gaudete Sunday reminds us that our waiting is filled with joy and hope. As we prepare for Christ’s coming, we trust in God’s promises and His perfect timing. And so, we rejoice.