True Joy

In the current economic downturn, many of those who have lost jobs have been forced to abandon their  line of work and consider new opportunities.   Some have even gone on to further their education in entirely new fields.   Whether we are in mid-life and having to re-evaluate our current vocation, or fresh out of college and just beginning a job search, we inevitably have to ponder this question:  What brings me joy?   It is, after all, joy that will often make the difference between work that is ho-hum and work that is satisfying. 

Joy is often made synonymous with happiness.  But, true joy goes deeper.  Joy brings about a sense of inner peace, even in the midst of external chaos.  Joy is able to hold the good and the bad in tandem instead of in tension.   Joy is the assurance that all is well and that all shall be well.

Each liturgy immerses us in true joy.   Each liturgy, as a remembrance of the dying and rising of Jesus, holds both death and resurrection in tandem.   Each liturgy then, gives us the assurance that all is well and that all shall be well, even in the midst of chaos, even in the face of death.

On the third Sunday of Advent especially, the liturgy encourages us to reflect on the meaning of joy as we celebrate Gaudete Sunday.   The word Gaudete is Latin for “Rejoice.”  Gaudete Sunday takes its name from the first word of Sunday’s entrance antiphon which reads:  “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say rejoice.” 

As we continue our journey this Advent, may we reflect on what brings us true joy, whether at work, at play or in prayer.   Meanwhile, here are a few “joyous” quotes to start us off:

Joy is the noblest human act – Thomas Aquinas

Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls – Mother Teresa  

Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God – Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Amen!