Today is the Third Sunday of Advent, sometime known as "Rose Sunday" or "Gaudete Sunday." Our reading from Paul's letter to the Philippians says, "Rejoice (Gaudete) in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice." Today we rejoice in the anticipation of celebrating Christmas, which is only a week away. Today we get to lighten up a bit and light a pink candle in the Advent wreath. Today behind the altar where I will celebrate Holy Eucharist, there are beautiful roses out of someone's yard.Here is the full text of the reading from Philippians 4:4-9:
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you."
On this "Rose Sunday," that scripture is too good not to repeat.
Pastor Linda
The Rev. Linda McCloud
Founding Pastor
The Episcopal Church of Our Savior at Honey Creek
oursaviorhoneycreek.blogspot.com
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