A reading from the book of John 1:6-8, 19-28: John was sent to tell others about Jesus so that all could believe in him. The priests came to John and said, "Who are you? Are you Elijah, or a prophet? Are you the one?" and John said, "I am not Elijah, a prophet, or Christ. As Isaiah the prophet said, 'I am the voice of one crying out in the desert 'make straight the way of the Lord.' There is one among you that you do not recognize who will come after me and is greater than me."
This is the 3rd Sunday of Advent. This week we are lighting the rose candle and celebrating Gaudete Sunday! The rose (or pink) candle represents Joy. In fact, Gaudete means "rejoice ye". We remember the Joy that Jesus brought to the world this Sunday! We continue to get ready for Christmas, Jesus's Birthday, just as John was getting the people in the Gospel reading for Jesus's coming. John told people to do things that would "make straight the way to the Lord". In other words, he was saying to do things that will bring you closer to the Lord - just as straight line is closer to God than a curvy wavy line. We want to make that line straight to God this Advent season!
Questions to ask your child about this week’s lesson:
Who did the priests and people think that John was? (Christ, a prophet, and Elijah)
What color candle are we lighting this week on the advent wreath and what does it stand for? (pink/rose, joy)
How are you preparing for Jesus this 3rd Sunday of Advent?