What Should We Do?

"The crowds asked John the Baptist, 'What should we do?'" (Lk 3:10).  His answers were concise, direct and practical:  "Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has one.  And whoever has food should do likewise." (Lk 3: 11).  John did not want to put extra burdens on people, but to free them up so that they could eventually be ready to recognize Jesus. Because of his effective preaching, the people thought he might be the Messiah, but he was quick to dispell that misconception.  No, there was someone to come after him, the ties of his sandal he was not worthy to loosen.
This Third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday, or in English, Rejoice Sunday.  It is a day to be filled with joy, for "the Lord is near." (Phil 4: 5).  John's preaching was preparatory, was conscious that the time was ripe for a new phase in the spiritual lives of the people who had been longing for the Messiah.  He preached an austerity and a simplicity that would help them recognize this Messiah and then find their fullest possible joy in him.  St. Marcellin's awareness of the "presence of God" near us, in us, in the hearts of our neighbors was an Advent concept aimed at helping his brothers and their students find their joy in the nearness of God. 
As we enter this Third Week, and for the most part, the final week of Advent. we might do some simple act of sharing what we have "doubles"  or "triples" of  (no need to give everything away),  find the joy that comes with giving, and become more aware of the nearness of God in the persons in need who are all around us. Let us not forget, as well, to keep praying for the deceased and mourning in Newtown, Connecticut. and other places in our globe where tragedy or violence have struck. May our rejoicing come from our giving.
Bro Rene