Opening Prayer Series: Third Sunday of Advent

The Opening Prayer for the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudate Sunday) is as follows:

Let us pray

(that God will fill us with joy at the coming of Christ)

Lord God, 

may we, Your people who look forward to the birthday of Christ 

experience the joy of salvation 

and celebrate that feast with love and thanksgiving. 

In making this prayer tangible, the following reflection questions emerged.

1. What are the key ingredients to celebrating a birthday?
2. What ingredients do I consider necessary to celebrate the birthday of Christ?
3. How will 1 experience the joy of salvation this coming week?
4. How can I celebrate the birthday of Christ with love- ie love for God, love for my neighbour and a healthy love for myself?
5. How can I celebrate the birthday of Christ with thanksgiving to God?
6. What present will I give Jesus for His birthday this year?

Last week, John was introduced again to us and we are told that the people came to him for baptism for the repentance of their sins. John had a mission, which was to be a precursor to Jesus and to point the way to Him. 

In today's Gospel, we get to know John the Baptist further. John is not only to baptise but to witness to Jesus-a witness to speak for the light.  When he was questioned about his mission, he was ready with his answer and declared it quite openly to those who questioned him.

As Catholics, we too need to be witnesses for the light of Jesus. When we are questioned, we too need to have our answers ready and be unafraid to answer.  We need to know our faith well, so that when we are questioned, we can answer confidently and accuratel,y so that the light of Jesus is not diminished.  We must point the way to Jesus witness to Him by our lives.

Who will know Jesus this advent/Christmas by YOUR witness this coming week?