In this Sunday’s readings, those who heard John’s preaching of the Good News were filled with “expectation.” He told them to exercise the same kind of radical hospitality, service, and giving that the Advent Conspiracy is all about, but today’s readings also include the exhortation to “rejoice” and “shout for joy” because of God’s presence in our midst—and for the second coming of our savior. How, in heaven’s name, can we be joyful when living as disciples of Jesus may seem like more than we can handle? The answer is to take each day one step at a time. Let me share a quick story.
Years ago, I had a member of my staff who suffered the death of her mother-in-law. I felt that it was important to go to the funeral home and stay for the “service,” yet it was a particularly busy time of year, so I wasn’t planning on going to the luncheon that followed. I had already made my decision when, after the service, our pastor asked if I was planning to attend. What stands out, in my memory, was the somewhat incredulous tone in my voice when I answered, “No! I just don’t have the time!” (Surely, he knew how busy I was!) The other things that stood out to me were the volume of my voice and how close my staff member and her husband were standing as I spoke. I left the funeral home, and as time passed, I felt worse and worse. I’m sure they must have heard me. Hadn’t I (essentially) said that my busy life took precedence over being with them in a time of suffering? By God’s grace, I came to see that “presence” can mean the world to people and that there is great value in just “showing up.” I don’t need to have the right words or solve all the world’s problems. I can simply choose to love by “being there” for someone. When more is needed, I can choose the next, best step—one simple, doable step at a time. There is great joy in that knowledge.
On this Gaudete Sunday, when all of the readings point to God calling us to be joyful, may we all choose love amidst last-minute Christmas shopping clashes and holiday get-togethers with family (and others who push our buttons in this post-election climate). May our joy come from knowing that presence is often enough and that the next, doable step will present itself, bringing joy from any corresponding response. May we also know that relationships are more important than issues and that we can simply choose “presence” over arguing any point. As I see it, that interaction might sound something like this: “Uncle Bob, today is Christmas. I just want to think about how blessed we are to be celebrating God’s gift of Jesus’ birth with our family today. That other stuff can wait. Have I told you lately how much I love you?”