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We are citizens of this world and of the particular country in which we live. Therefore, as Vatican II taught us, the joys and the hopes, the griefs and anxieties of our contemporaries are also the joys and the hopes, the griefs and anxieties of Christians. There is at the same time a great difference, especially in the source of our joy, for our joy in this world, no matter how human it may be, has been given a new dimension by our faith in Christ. The readings for this third Sunday of Advent provide us with a meditation on the true source of our joy: "I exult for joy in the Lord, my soul rejoices in my God". These words of Isaiah are echoed in Mary's Magnificat. The good news is clear: God is the source of our joy. The closer we are united with God, the more will we experience the meaning of the evangelical joy which is at the heart of the Christmas mystery.
Lord Jesus, teach us to rejoice in the mystery of Your coming as Your mother rejoiced when she visited Elizabeth. May we, like Mary continually bring Your joy to others in the midst of their anxieties and griefs.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That children may be protected and defended against every form of violence by means of the care taken by their families and of adequate social policies, all over the world.
Elaboration
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