Gaudete Sunday ~ Gaudete is a Latin word meaning “rejoice.”

Ten days, until Jesus comes as an approachable, tiny baby on a bed of straw. For many of us that means, ten days to wrap presents, buy groceries, take in Christmas programs, send out cards, clean the house, shovel the walks, settle family disagreements, bake goodies and delivery plates of cookies. Ten days, 240 hours, 14,400 minutes and 854,000 seconds to get this all done.

WAIT! I am supposed to be rejoicing…a baby is on the way.

The Savior of the World is coming.

We don’t need to be anxious, doubtful, stressed or tense. God has a plan and I can guarantee you; His plan is better than anything I could ever think of on my own.

SO, this third week of Advent, I need to take time to adore the God who orchestrated this whirling world, hung every star and counted every grain of sand. He knew my name before I was born, God has numbered the hairs on my head and holds me in the palm of His hand. I need to throw my fears and worries aside and adore the God who calls me by name.

Abba, God take my hand and slow me down.

Help me to be grateful for

a house to dust,

money to buy food,

good health to shovel the snow,

family members.

By example, may I encourage others to adore God.

Just as St. Peter said, “A light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” A ray of light bringing joy to a broken world. Rejoice!