Our usual image of the prophets of old is as purveyors of doom and gloom, so what then do we make of old Isaiah in today's first reading as he positively exudes joy in proclaiming the coming of Israel's salvation? What kind of "joy" is that of Isaiah, not to mention that of the Baptist and Jesus himself (in today's Gospel reading)? It is certainly distinct from pleasure, contentment, and even self-fulfillment. Scriptural joy has its roots in something beyond anything we can create for ourselves; it is founded in faith, hope, and love. And so this day, we celebrate that joy with the simple call to Rejoice!

Homily shared with the Saint Francis Catholic Community in Cuenca, Ecuador.