Here are some of the themes that emerge from the Mass readings for the 3rd Sunday of Advent.
1st Reading – Isaiah 61:1-2a,10-11
- The Spirit of the Lord comes upon Isaiah to preach glad tidings of hope and liberty.
- God is the source of all blessings that bring joy, justice, and praise.
Psalm – Luke 1:46-50,53-54
- “My soul rejoices in my God.”
- This “psalm” is actually taken from Mary’s Magnificat in Luke’s Gospel, proclaiming God’s goodness and mercy.
2nd Reading – 1st Thessalonians 5:16-24
- Rejoice, pray, and give thanks without ceasing, testing everything and retaining what is good.
- With God’s peace we grow in holiness, as we live blameless lives for the Lord.
Gospel – John 1:6-8,19-20
- John the Baptist testifies that he is not Elijah, the prophet, or the Christ.
- Rather, John comes to testify to the light – Jesus Christ – who is yet to come.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Advent (Year B, #8)
***************
Three Great Things 