Readings for Sunday, December 17 — The Third Sunday of Advent
Isaiah 61:1-2A, 10-11; Luke 1:46-48, 49-50, 53-54; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, 19-28
Suggested Reflection Questions:
- In the first reading, we hear the words of vindication: liberty, release, healing. When the Lord comes, what vindication are you longing for the most? It could be related to you or related to a group you are in solidarity with. What does vindication mean in our modern day?
- In the second reading, we are told to pray, rejoice, and give thanks. “Test everything; retain what is good.” How are you currently doing in your effort to pray, rejoice, test everything (retain what is good), and give thanks? Was Thanksgiving a blip on the radar or have you tried to develop a life of gratitude? What are some ways we can develop a life of gratitude?
- We have heard, twice now, the phrase “Make straight the way of the Lord.” This time, we hear it in the Gospel. What does this mean to you? What does it mean to our modern world? What daily practices help to “make straight the way of the Lord” and where could you be doing better?
