3RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT, YEAR C: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “WHAT THEN SHALL WE DO?”

INTRODUCTION:

As we march rejoicing to the coming of the Christ at Christmas, we have to get our cards/acts right as many who came to John the Baptist today demanded for a clue. We all got to amend our ways no matter our work or status so that the coming of Christ would not bring us God’s condemnation, but God’s salvation.

THE FIRST READING (ZEPH. 3: 14–18)

In the first reading, we are called to start rejoicing already for our King is coming; to take away the judgments against us, to cast out our enemies, to take away our fears and weaknesses, to bring us victory and renewal in his love. This certainly calls for rejoicing. However, we must make sure that at the coming of our King, we do not make ourselves the enemies of ourselves, the enemies of our Christian brothers and sisters, or the enemies of God himself by our way of life.

THE SECOND READING (PHIL. 4: 4–7)

In the second reading again, St. Paul enjoined us to rejoice and quit every anxiety about anything. Many would increase their anxiety over so many things this period; trying to meet up one worldly target or the other and rob themselves of the joy of this season. Many would put themselves to overdrive this period trying to achieve what they were not able to achieve within eleven months in one month. Some would now become sad and forlorn, not because Christmas did not come, but because they were not able to meet their anxieties and vaulting ambitions.

THE GOSPEL READING (LK. 3: 10–18)

In the gospel reading, the multitudes which comprised of people of various social status (commons, soldiers, tax collectors, etc.) asked John the Baptist what they shall/must do to have a joyful Christmas. John the Baptist told many of them to simply share their goods (charity); collect no more than is due/appointed for them, rob no one by violence or by greed, and be content with your wages. The issue of contentment during the period of Christmas remains a matter of great concern for many. Many want to do more than themselves this period leading to more sorrows than joy.

CONCLUSION

What then shall we do to rejoice and attain joy at Christmas? Be contented, be charitable, be forgiving, and be clean in mind and actions. Little wonder all that came to John the Baptist this time accepted baptism or sanctification from their sinful past life. May we also purify ourselves this period, go for confessions, go for the sacraments and rightly await the coming of our Saviour King, Christ the Lord.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin