A Message from Fr. Jay
Dear Friends,
On this Gaudete Sunday, the first reading reminds us that the Lord our God is in our midst! We are called to cherish again and again the fact that our God is in our midst! God also enjoys the company of His own people. It is not a mere link but a strong connection. In this era of social media, we are linked to the world through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc., but we stay personally disconnected from all of the people. Similarly, sometimes, we can feel that we are linked to God but not really connected. Let us pause for a moment during this Advent preparation time and ask ourselves how deep we are ‘connected’ to the Lord. Is my connection vital and strong to the Lord? This vital connection brings joy!
In the Gospel, the crowd, the tax collectors and soldiers came to John the Baptist and asked him what they should do. He did not say to them, ‘go…live in the desert, wear camel’s skin, eat locusts and drink honey’, but he told them to reconcile and reconnect themselves to God and to others by sharing and caring. Real joy comes out of kindness, prayer, and gratitude. This is achieved through the strong connection with God in the second reading.
During this Advent season, we can talk to God through meditation and reflection. Ask yourself what you should do personally to become joyful. Let us make our link a vibrant connection to God.
We have a great opportunity to make use of Advent Penance Service this Tuesday, December 17th at 6:00pm in the Church. Approximately 20 priests will be available for the service. Please consider making your connection with our Lord more vibrant!
God Bless You,
Fr. Jay Raju
Reading 1: Zephaniah 3:14-18a
Reading 11: Philippians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 3:1-6
