17 th December, 2006

3 rd Sunday of Advent - Year C

S: Good morning - today is Gaudete Sunday or Joyful Sunday. The odd coloured candle (that’s the pink one) is lit today on the Advent Wreath as a symbol of the gift of Joy that God gives to us.

B: Joyfulness or happiness is not something that can be hidden, if you’re happy, people know it - they see the smile on your face and a smile can be very infectious and lifts the mood of everybody around you, so don’t be afraid to share any joy that’s in your life with the people around you.

S: Advent is also a wake up call isn’t it, a call to wake up to the needs of those around us, and in these times of short days, long nights and bad weather it might be a good thing to keep an eye on neighbours that might need your help. Some of the happiest people I know are older people and this morning we have a prayer for you called “A Golden Prayer”.

B: Blessed are they who bring back memories of yesterday.

Blessed are they who understand my faltering steps and shaky hand.

Blessed are they who know that my ears today must strain to catch the things they say.

Blessed are they who seem to know that my eyes are dim and wits are slow.

Blessed are they who looked away when the cup spilled at my table today.

Blessed are they with a cheery smile who stop to chat for a little while.

S: Blessed are they who never say “You’ve told that story twice today”.

Blessed are they who make it known that I am loved, respected and not alone.

Blessed are they who know I am at a loss to find the strength to carry my cross.

Blessed are they who in loving ways ease the days on my journey home.

B: You’ve been listening to “Just a thought” with Brenda Cribbin...

S: and Seamus Madigan. We can be contacted through the Limerick Diocesan Offices at Henry Street. You can also download your own copy of this reflection by clicking on limerickdiocese.org

B: We look forward to your company again next week, so take care...

S & B: Bye

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