The name Gaudete Sunday, for this day in the liturgical year, comes from the entrance antiphon in the Roman Missal: "Rejoice in the Lord, always; again I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near." (Phil 4: 4-5) It is the counterpart of Laetare Sunday, on the Fourth Sunday of Lent, The colour rose speaks of the dawning of salvation, just as the sky can appear at sunrise. Yet, John the Baptist, suffering in prison, does not sound joyful. He asks Jesus: " 'Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?' " (Mtt 11: 3) It is comforting that even the greatest of prophets should have moments of darkness and doubt. Let us take the advice of James in our Second Reading: "You must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near." (Jm 5: 8) The joy we experience at Mass helps to sustain us as we journey in faith as Pilgrims of Hope, not just in this Jubilee Year, but for the whole of our lives. If we are obedient to our Lord and strive to please him in prayer and work, we will witness God's power in his lives and enjoy His blessing: "And blessed is anyone who takes not offense at me." (Mtt 11: 6)
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