Rejoice

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

-1 Thessalonians 5:16

There is no shortage of advice from Paul and the other epistle writers about how we are to behave as people of faith. In recent weeks in our Sunday epistle, we’ve been told to:

Put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

Purify yourselves, as he is pure.

Strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish.

Some of the advice given by Peter, John, James, Paul or other letter writers are beautifully written but hard to know how to adopt as practices. Just how do you purify yourself as Christ is pure? And where can I find a helmet of the hope of salvation? It’s easier said than done to just simply be at peace. And if anyone knows a way to have no spots or blemishes they can let me know. Nice sentiment, guys - but just how are you supposed to do those things?

That’s something I really like about Paul’s advice to the Thessalonians this week. It’s simple and it’s do-able. Three things: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances. These are three things I can really work on.

Because no matter my circumstances, I can focus on things in my life that give me joy. And I can give thanks for those things. When I put on an attitude of gratitude, I find endless gifts and blessings that I normally tend to take for granted. And I can always find ways to pray more. If you haven’t watched my pandemic-produced 2 minute prayer prompt videos lately, you can get a few ideas there for new ways to pray this Advent - and hopefully beyond.

Paul recommends we practice these three things at all times - even when it seems there may be nothing to rejoice or be thankful about. It is a practice, he says, of preparing for the coming of Christ. And if you’ve ever wondered what the pink candle in the advent wreate is all about, it is in honor of Gaudete Sunday, which means the Sunday of rejoicing. Despite Advent being a season of repentence, rejoicing is also an integral part of the process of confession and forgiveness.

It is a good reminder for all of us during Advent. Becoming resentful and bitter and squelching the Spirit in this world can be as easy as rolling downhill. Rejoicing and giving thanks and prayer are time proven ways to construct emergency truck ramps on that slippery slope that can keep you from rolling down too far, and at the same time, shine a light in a dark place for others.

Our readings for this week are here.