December 14, 2024

Today's Reading: Introit for Advent 3 - Psalm 146:5-8; antiphon: Philippians 4:4

Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 30:15-26; Revelation 2:1-29

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Modern Advent wreaths have four blue candles. Each Sunday in Advent, another candle is lit, reminding us that Jesus, “the true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.” (John 1:9). Traditionally, Advent wreaths had three violet candles and one rose candle. The rose, or pink-colored, candle was lit on the third Sunday in Advent. Why pink? Why that Sunday? Because of the introit for that Sunday which is known as Gaudete Sunday.

The first word of the introit for this Sunday is “Rejoice” (which, in Latin, is Gaudete.) This word of gladness marks a change in tone from the rest of the season, which is a more somber time of repentance and preparation for the Lord’s return in judgment. The main part of the introit is Psalm 146, but the antiphonal verse with the opening line is from Philippians 4. In that passage, St. Paul also has the end of days in mind, writing, “The Lord is at hand.” But he is not writing about this as a warning to the people but rather as a comfort. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Phil. 4:6)

Like everyone else, Christians get anxious and worry about the future. (We shouldn’t, but we do.) When anxiety comes, prayer, in which we make our requests known to God, is a welcome relief. So is recalling your blessings. Yes, even in the midst of worrying over what may be ahead, it is still possible and very beneficial to look back and recall what the Lord has done. This is what the Psalmist does in Psalm 146. He recalls that the Lord is the author of all creation, and He remains forever faithful. He remembers various ways in which God helps those in need and lifts up the humble. 

If you ever need help recalling how blessed you are, just read the Psalms. You will find that they are filled with praises to God for what He has done. But chief among our blessings is the forgiveness won for us by Jesus. His Gift of forgiveness sets us free from sin and the guilt and shame that comes with it. His work of salvation gives hope that whatever the future holds, the end is certain. In the end, all who are in Him will be raised and lifted up forever in His everlasting kingdom. 

With this end in mind, you can truly “Rejoice in the Lord always,” no matter your present circumstances. And when you do, “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:7) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

The Saints, who here in patience Their cross and suff’rings bore, Shall live and reign forever When sorrow is no more. Around the throne of glory The Lamb they shall behold; In triumph cast before Him Their diadems of gold. (LSB 515:3)

-Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.

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