Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent

• First Reading – Isaiah 56:1-3a, 6-8: The LORD promises to bring all people, including foreigners who serve Him, to His holy mountain. They will find joy in His house, and their offerings will be accepted.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 67: God blesses us, and His salvation is known by all nations. We are called to rejoice in His guidance and justice, and all the earth should honor Him.
• Gospel – John 5:33-36: Jesus points out that while John testified to the truth, His works are a greater testimony of the Father’s will. Through these works, Jesus proves He was sent by the Father.

Lectionary Reference: 191

Upcoming dates: December 16, 2033

I have testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.

John 5:36

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent reminds people that God welcomes all who seek Him. The readings show that faith and obedience matter more than background or status.

• God welcomes all: God invites everyone to follow Him, no matter their background. Isaiah speaks of outsiders joining God’s people, and Jesus points to His works as proof of His mission.
• Obedience matters: God calls people to do what is right. Isaiah tells people to act with justice, and Jesus speaks of doing the Father’s work.
• Faith is shown in actions: True faith is not just words but actions. Isaiah speaks of those who serve God, and Jesus points to His works as a sign of who He is.
• God’s promises are for all: Isaiah speaks of foreigners who love God and are included in His promises. Jesus shows that God’s plan includes all who believe in Him.
• God’s work is clear: Jesus says His works show that He was sent by the Father. His miracles and teachings prove His mission.
• Justice is part of faith: God asks people to act justly. Faith is not just about prayer but also about doing what is right.

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent reminds people to trust in God’s plan. He calls all to follow Him and live with faith and justice.

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent reminds people that God’s love is for everyone. The readings show that faith is not just about words but about action and trust in God. Isaiah speaks of outsiders being welcomed because of their faith, and Jesus points to His works as proof of His mission. These messages call people to live with justice, faith, and obedience. As Advent continues, this is a time to reflect on how to follow God’s ways and prepare for Jesus’ coming.

God Welcomes All

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent reminds people that God’s love is for everyone. Isaiah speaks about foreigners who choose to follow God and do what is right. They are not turned away but are welcomed as part of His people. God does not look at where someone comes from. He looks at their faith and actions.

Jesus also shows this in the Gospel. He speaks about His works as proof that He was sent by the Father. His mission is not just for one group of people. It is for all who believe in Him.

This is a powerful reminder that no one is excluded from God’s love. Anyone who seeks Him with a sincere heart can be part of His family. Faith is not about background or status. It is about following God and trusting in Him.

During Advent, people prepare for Jesus’ coming. Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent encourages them to open their hearts to all. Just as God welcomes everyone, people should do the same.

God’s Work Is Clear

Jesus speaks about His works as proof of His mission. He does not just tell people who He is. He shows them through His actions. The miracles He performs and the teachings He gives all point back to the Father.

This connects to Isaiah’s message about justice and obedience. Those who follow God will live in a way that reflects His goodness. Their lives will show that they belong to Him. Actions speak louder than words when it comes to faith.

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent is a time to reflect on this. Do people recognize God’s work in their lives? Do they see how He is present and guiding them? Jesus made His mission clear through His works. People today can look for His presence in their own lives.

Faith is not just about knowing the truth. It is about seeing and responding to what God is doing. This Advent season is a chance to pay attention and trust in His plan.

Faith Is Shown in Actions

Faith is more than just saying the right words. It is about living in a way that reflects God’s love and truth. Isaiah speaks about those who serve God and do what is right. They are the ones who truly belong to Him.

Jesus also makes this clear in the Gospel. He points to His works as proof of who He is. He does not just claim to be sent by the Father—He shows it. His actions confirm His mission.

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent invites people to examine their own faith. Is it just words, or is it lived out in daily life? Faith should be seen in kindness, honesty, and trust in God.

Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus’ coming. It is also a time to ask, “How do my actions show my faith?” Living out faith every day is the best way to be ready for Him.

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Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent is a reminder that God welcomes all who seek Him. Faith is shown in actions, and Jesus’ works reveal His mission. People are called to trust in God and live in a way that reflects His love. As Christmas draws near, this is a chance to renew faith and follow God more closely.

Prayer

Lord, You welcome all who seek You with faith. Help me to trust in You and live as You call me to live. Let my actions reflect Your love and truth. Show me how to follow Your ways each day. Thank You for Your mercy and kindness. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• How does the message of Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent challenge me to live differently?
• In what ways can I show my faith through my actions?
• How do I recognize God’s work in my life?
• What can I do to welcome others as God welcomes me?

God’s Love is for Everyone

Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent reminds people that Jesus came for all. Dr. Sullivan explains that Isaiah’s words show God’s love is not just for one group but for every nation and language. Jesus invites everyone into a relationship with Him. The Church is called Catholic because it is universal, welcoming all who seek truth and goodness. Through Jesus, all people can become part of God’s family.

Dr. Sullivan shares that the Church’s mission is to bring all people into faith. Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent is a time to be grateful for this invitation. The Creed reminds Catholics that they belong to one Church, united in faith and love. As followers of Jesus, they are called to share this message with others. Through words and actions, they can draw people closer to God’s family.

What date is Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent?

The next date is December 16, 2033.

What are the Mass readings for Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent?

The Mass readings for December 16, 2033 are:
First Reading  –  Isaiah 56:1-3a, 6-8: A House of Prayer for All Peoples
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 67: Praise for God’s Blessings and Justice
Gospel – John 5:33-36: The Works that Testify to Jesus

Why does Isaiah talk about foreigners being included?

God’s love and promises are for everyone. Those who follow Him and do what is right are part of His people.

What does it mean to act with justice?

It means treating others fairly and doing what is right. God wants people to be honest, kind, and faithful.

Why does God care about justice?

Justice is part of love. Treating others fairly and doing what is right brings people closer to God.

What can we learn from Isaiah’s message?

God welcomes all who follow Him. Anyone who loves Him and does what is right can be part of His family.

Why does Jesus say His works are important?

His works show that He was sent by the Father. They prove that His mission is real.

Why does Jesus mention John the Baptist?

John prepared the way for Jesus. He told people to turn to God and believe.

How can we apply the message of Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent to daily life?

People can live with faith and kindness. They can do what is right and trust in God’s plan.

How does Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent help us prepare for Christmas?

It reminds people that Jesus came for everyone. Faith, justice, and obedience help people get ready for His coming.

How does Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent show that faith is more than words?

The readings show that faith is seen in actions. People who love God will live in a way that pleases Him.

What does Friday of the 3rd Week of Advent teach about God’s plan?

God’s plan is for all people. He calls everyone to follow Him and be part of His family.