It has always struck me how dreary Advent can become. The absence of the joyful strains of 'Gloria' and the dark purple vestments counter the bright lights and happy singing of the commercial world. But today we are given a little reprieve from our waiting and given the opportunity to rejoice. Gaudete Sunday is like a practice-run of our Christmas celebration, and the rose-coloured vestments mark that contrast for us.
This liturgical practice reflects the manner in which our Christian hope is lived. In our lives, we experience the darkness of sin and evil. We are called to confront these realities, and to seek redemption through them. Yet we can already taste the freedom of our eternal salvation in Christ. This is why we can rejoice today. The reality of our waiting is truly bitter, but the reality of our redemption is truly at hand.
The Prophet Isaiah describes this paradox for us: the desert shall rejoice and blossom, those of weak heart and feeble knees should stand firm - our God comes with vengeance to save us. Our salvation has been revealed. Now we must wait patiently, wait as the farmer waits for his crops to grow. Our Lord is coming soon, he will not delay. We have no need to expect another. Let us rejoice in the knowledge of our Lord, and savour the sweetness of our salvation.
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