Rejoice in the Lord always, Rejoice! So near, so close that the coming of Jesus is at hand!

The Third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete or the Sunday of Joy. The rose-colored candle in the Advent wreath is lit and the priest is wearing rose-colored vestments in expression of our joy in the coming of Jesus. We will celebrate Christmas in a few days from now, remembering the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

This is the dream of every person – to be happy. Whatever or wherever, we will find ways to reach the happiness that we dream of. But where do we find real happiness? Our readings tell us so. Specifically, in the gospel reading, John the Baptist explains where it is rooted. “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” Isn’t it a joy whenever we freely give what we have? It is not merely for the sake of giving; rather, it is giving from the heart. The tax collector is instructed to stop collecting more than what is prescribed. The soldiers should not practice extortion, not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with their wages. And the people were filled with expectation, and all were asking their hearts whether John be the Christ.

This is one of the best things I admire about John the Baptist when he said, “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire…” He is humble because he recognizes that there is someone greater than him, though people already believed in him being the Messiah. His baptizing the people with water is a preparation for the coming of the Messiah. He knows his place and role in God’s plan of salvation.

How do we become really happy, especially in this season of Christmas? What does it bring us? Is it the presents or the presence? Let us have an inventory of the amount of gladness in our lives, our families, and our communities. Let us pause for a while in front of the Belen and take a look at the many blessings God has gifted us. Let us pray. Let us forgive and ask for forgiveness. We are invited not to miss the real essence of Christmas. It is the birthday of Jesus, a child who was born in a manger, not in a luxurious space but rather in a humble one where everybody is welcomed.

We are called to do what is good, just and right in whatever circumstance that we are in. We rejoice amidst the many struggles that we and our people are experiencing. Rejoice! For the gift of life, for the gift of families, for the gift of our communities, and of friendship, Rejoice!