Third Sunday of Advent

Today the Church celebrates the Third Sunday of Advent. The assigned readings are Isaiah 35:1-6A, 10; James 5:7-10; and Matthew 11:2-11. The Responsorial Psalm is from Psalm 146 (Psalm 146:6-10).

For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:

YouTube: Psalm 146: Lord, Come And Save Us (Haugen)

The Gospel reading is as follows:

When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?"

Jesus said to them in reply, "Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me."

As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, "What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out?  To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."

Reflections on these readings:

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sunday Reflections: Third Sunday of Advent (December 15, 2019)

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Third Sunday of Advent (December 15, 2019)

Community in Mission: The Perfect Gift: A Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Advent (14 DEC 19)

Crossroads Initiative: Rejoice in Hope - Gaudete Sunday & John the Baptist

The Sacred Page: Joyful When Nothing Is Going Well: Gaudete Sunday Year A (11 DEC 19)

The Sacred Page: John the Baptist and the Coming of God (The Mass Readings Explained) (9 DEC 19)

St. Paul Center: Here is Your God: Scott Hahn Reflects on the Third Sunday of Advent

Word on Fire: What You Hear and See (Cycle A * Advent * Week 3)

National Catholic Register: Sunday Readings: Advent Reminder: God Comes to Our Deserts (11 DEC 19)

Spirituality of the Readings: Gifts (Third Sunday of Advent A)

In Exile: Advent: Preparing for the Sublime (Third Sunday of Advent A)

Glancing Thoughts: No Offense, But… (Third Sunday of Advent A)

The Perspective of Justice: He Who Is To Come (Third Sunday of Advent A)

Let the Scriptures Speak: A Healing Messiah? (Third Sunday of Advent A)

The Word Engaged: Waiting (Third Sunday of Advent A)

Historical Cultural Context: Jesus and John (Third Sunday of Advent A)

Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by Thomas of Villanova (Third Sunday of Advent A)