Julie's Jottings for December 

Since the 5th century there has been a tradition on the third Sunday of Advent to have a day of rejoicing.  It is called Gaudete (Latin for rejoice) Sunday and marks a shift in focus. Anticipation for something a long way in the future is now close at hand.  This is a time to rejoice, to feel or show great joy or delight.

A much-enjoyed Advent hymn dates back to the 8th century and takes up the theme of rejoicing.

Rejoice, rejoice! Christ is born
Of the Virgin Mary – Rejoice!
The time of grace has come— What we have wished for;
Songs of joy. Let us give back faithfully.
God has become human, With nature marvelling,
The world has been renewed By the reigning Christ.
The closed gate of Ezekiel Is passed through,
Whence the light is risen; Salvation has been found.
Therefore, let our assembly Now sing in brightness
Let it bless the Lord: Greetings to our King.

The carol refers to the closed East gate of the Temple, which in Old Testament tradition was only going to be opened when the Redeemer came to set the people free.  The carol regards Christ, the Prince of Peace as this Redeemer.

Rejoicing is not just a response to what God has done, in the past, it is a choice.  It is not just something to give back in response to what happens to us, but something that we give back to God and others by bringing them joy.  The person who gives back love and joy to others anticipates Christ’s coming.

I hope that you have joyful Christmas, and the things that come your way bring healing and hope to you and your family.
                             

Reflection for December

Christmas is coming! Preparations for the big day are under way, the shops have been at it for some weeks already. But what is it that is coming? Hopefully a happy time to celebrate with family and friends, presents, plenty of good food, but maybe the New Year starting with a hole in the bank balance or an even bigger number on the credit card. Probably all those things but not of course for everyone.

But what about the Christ part of Christmas?  This short season of Advent focuses our thinking, our anticipation of remembering and giving thanks for the coming of the Christ child into our human lives. Almighty God, made man for us, God with us then and, wonderfully, now. That is indeed something to celebrate.

An old proverb says, “You can’t fatten the pig the night before the fair”. Time and again I remind myself not to wait until Christmas Day to give thanks for the generous love and unfailing mercy of God. Advent provides the time look again at my life, what I am doing, what I am regrettably leaving undone and prepare myself to do better. Advent is a time to reflect on God’s infinite love and mercy for me and all mankind, on His willingness to forgive and His desire to be reconciled with us all, not just on Christmas Day but every day of the year. Thanks be to God.