3RD SUNDAY IN ADVENT C

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Fake News = Sadness; Good News = Gladness






You instinctively type a smiley when you send a text or react to a post on social media. Does that mean you are really happy? You unthinkingly add the words “haha” or "LOL" when you send a message to someone or when you reply to acknowledge another’s message. Does that mean you were truly touched by the spirit of mirth?



Today there are automatic and automated ways to convey the idea of happiness. But it is also a fact that so many people are battling depression, entertaining suicide, or living in self-hate. Findings show that the more exposed to social media a person is, the more unsatisfied he/she is with the self because of the pressures of comparison with others and of the seeking for attention and approval.



The technological world can fake happiness. The material world can offer comfort but cannot produce gladness. The busy world cannot afford to stop and relish the feeling of joy. Now that Christmas is coming, the external trappings of the season can produce a climate of gaiety but cannot assure deep-seated satisfaction and peace beyond the veneer of food, gifts, decorations, and music.



As we prepare for the coming of the Savior, the readings remind us that the Messiah comes to fill the earth with joy. The first reading encourages the whole nation of Israel to remove from its midst fear and discouragement. God’s coming is a signal to jubilation, love, and rejoicing. In the gospel, John the Baptist shares the secret of his joy – Someone mightier, greater is coming, Someone who has the power to give the Holy Spirit to those who are willing to receive. There is joy in Jesus alone!



I heard the testimony of a Muslim man who grew up with a radical family background. He did not know the Lord Jesus Christ and he was not interested in Christianity either. But one thing he could not deny was the joy and peace he found in the next door neighbors, a family of Christians. Inquiring from them about the source of this joy, he was led to a new life as he embraced the faith and as Jesus embraced him as his own.

It is difficult to prove joy, as it is hard to prove the existence of God to those who do not believe. Joy is meant to be discovered - in silent prayer, in your favorite hobby, in the company of a loved one. For those who suffer much, joy comes when we learn to trust that in the end, God's love will triumph!



Pursuing the interest of the world produces sadness; drawing close to Jesus is the source of all gladness!




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