The Third Sunday in Advent 2024

Greetings to you in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who is our hope and strength in all seasons—especially in this sacred season of Advent.

This Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent, has been known since the 4th century as Gaudete Sunday, from the Latin word meaning “Rejoice!” “Rejoice!” urges the prophet Zephaniah. “Rejoice!” exhorts the apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians. “Rejoice in the Lord always!” proclaims the psalm traditionally chosen for this Sunday.

And yet, in the Gospel of Luke, the spotlight falls on John the Baptist, whose fiery call to repentance shakes the ground beneath us. His proclamation demands that we examine our lives, prepare our hearts, and change direction. The crowds respond with a question that cuts to the heart of discipleship: “What then should we do?”

We must, of course, change course. But Gaudete Sunday reminds us that when the present is difficult or the future feels bleak, our course corrections must be anchored in joy—the joy of what God is already working within us, among us, and in the world. The refrain of this day is clear: “Rejoice always!” We are called to trust not in our own striving, but in the grace of the One who is already among us and is coming again to us.

In this season of discernment and preparation, we are also called to confront the challenges of our time. It has been a month since voters of this country decided to make significant changes to the executive and legislative branches of the federal government. Many in congregations across our synod are feeling justifiably anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lies ahead. As new leaders emerge and their agenda takes shape, these concerns have deepened.

"What then should we do?” In the face of fear or anxiety about what’s ahead for any of us, remember that we are not alone. Advent anticipates the Christmas promise of God’s accompaniment, now and in all things. In every circumstance, we are upheld by God’s incarnational loving-kindness.

Advent invites us to discern the times wisely, to prepare accordingly, and to respond with joy as we change course in light of what is happening around us.

I urge you to be more attentive than ever to the struggles of our siblings in Christ. Scripture reminds us of our interconnectedness: "If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and individually members of it." (1 Corinthians 12:26–27)

Repair and reconcile relationships. Overcome differences. Strengthen solidarity. No one should face fear or hardship alone or endure hatred, violence, or threats in isolation. Reach out to your pastor and trusted members of your faith community. If you believe you may be a target of government action, notify your pastor so that they might provide support, advocacy, and connection with other faith communities throughout the synod.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in any trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change." (Psalm 46:1–2) When everything around us feels uncertain and disrupted, we can trust in God's steadfast presence. We are not abandoned, and we are never without hope.

St. Paul reminds us of our resilience in Christ: "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." (2 Corinthians 4:8–9)

As a community of faith, we bear each other’s burdens and share in each other’s joys. We are called to walk alongside one another, seeking justice and offering support as a tangible expression of Christ’s love.

As we move forward in faith, I encourage you to unite in action, build bridges with your neighbors, engage in community organizing, and deepen your prayer. In this Advent season, may our joy be strengthened by the bonds we forge in love and solidarity with one another. As the world changes rapidly, find solidarity with those who are most vulnerable and remain steadfast on the path of discipleship, choosing grace, love, justice, and especially joy—Advent joy!

"Rejoice in the Lord always! Again, I say Rejoice!”

It is an honor to serve alongside you within the body of Jesus Christ, our Sovereign.

With gratitude and solidarity,

The Rev. Jeff R. Johnson, (he/him/his)

Bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

bishopjeff@spselca.org | 510-559-2770