Gospel in Art: Gaudete Sunday: Third Sunday of Advent

An Italian Gaudete Sunday Chasuble, 17th century, Trent, embroidered silk and gold thread © Diocesan Museum of Trent, Italy

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 15 December 2024
Luke 3:10-18

At that time: The crowds asked John, 'What, then, shall we do?' And he answered them, 'Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.' Tax collectors also came to be baptised and said to him, 'Teacher, what shall we do?' And he said to them, 'Collect no more than you are authorized to do.' Soldiers also asked him, 'And we, what shall we do?' And he said to them, 'Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.'

As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, John answered them all, saying, 'I baptise you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.' So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people.

Reflection on the Roman Chasuble

There are certain questions that remain important throughout our lives. One of these is found at the start of today's gospel: 'What must we do?' It's a question we often ask when seeking to do what is right and good. As followers of Jesus, this question becomes, 'What does the Lord want me to do?' or 'What is the Lord asking of me?' Finding the answer isn't always straightforward and requires prayer, reflection, and guidance from others. Whether we ask this question as individuals, as a community, or as a society, it reflects our desire to align our actions with God's will in our specific circumstances.

In today's gospel, people turned to John the Baptist for guidance, and he provided clear direction. He urged everyone to share with those in need and offered tailored advice to specific groups. Tax collectors were told not to cheat people, and soldiers were instructed not to misuse their authority. John recognised that while the gospel call is universal-to love, forgive, and serve others as the Lord has done for us-it takes on different forms depending on our roles and situations in life. Each of us must discern what the gospel call means for our unique circumstances, asking ourselves: 'What must I do that only I am called to do?' This personal response to God's call is how we live out the gospel in the concrete realities of our lives.

Today is Gaudete Sunday, and the priests will be vested in pink/rose. The rose colour is used only twice in the entire liturgical year: on Gaudete Sunday in Advent and Laetare Sunday in Lent. This unique colour serves to infuse a sense of joy and hope into seasons traditionally marked by penance and reflection. In Advent, it reminds us that during the dark and often cold days of winter, the light of Christ is drawing near. Similarly, in Lent, it signals that the time of preparation is nearing its end, and the joyous celebration of the Resurrection is fast approaching. This subtle shift from purple to rose for just one day, encourages us to rejoice in the promise of what is to come.

Our Roman chasuble is an early 17th century vestment made in Trent, for Gaudete Sunday. It has subtle tones of pink, on white, with a rose lining. On the front, we find a rare depiction of God the Father. Alongside this, there are figures of angels delicately portrayed playing musical instruments such as the lute, harp, and flute, adding a sense of celestial harmony. The nativity is near! Complementing the figures is an abundant array of naturalistic details, including cherries, strawberries, red carnations, roses, lilies of the valley, hyacinths, fruit baskets, daffodils, tulips, pansies, and irises. Each element contributes to an atmosphere of vibrancy and celebration, perfectly encapsulating the joy and anticipation that Gaudete Sunday represents.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-3-10-18-2024/