When I was a child my parents took us on long trips from Kansas City, across the flat land of Kansas to the majestic Colorado Mountains. It seemed to take forever to get from one mile marker to the next. Our excitement of seeing Colorado’s beautiful mountains would often fade about the time we approached Limon, Colorado. Limon is barely a wide place in the road and will never be on anyone’s bucket list of places to visit. However, when we made it to Limon, we REJOICED! Arriving in Limon gave us hope that, if we persevere just a little further, the glorious Colorado mountain range would arise before us, and we could soak in the amazement and wonder of God once again.
Similar to the long family trips to Colorado, Lent can seem to drag on forever. But to renew our hope, the wisdom of the Catholic Church inspires us with a day for rejoicing. This day for rejoicing is the 4th Sunday of Lent, known as Laetare Sunday. On Laetare Sunday we rejoice for the glory of Jesus as He will soon arise for us at the Easter Resurrection.
Because Lent is a time when Mass readings often warn of tough times and the need to repent, the altar is bare, no flowers are seen in the sanctuary, and the “Hallelujah” has not been sung since before Lent began, you may find it odd to celebrate. However, this all changes on this special liturgical celebration of joy as we are encouraged and given a glimpse of the joy we will experience on Easter. As its Latin name asserts, Laetare Sunday is a day for us to briefly come out of the grind of Lent and REJOICE. On Laetare Sunday, you will hear in the opening psalm of the Mass, “Rejoice Jerusalem!” and the readings assure us of the light of Christ shining in the darkness so we can see the truth and glory of God.
Also, just as when we celebrate Gaudete Sunday in Advent, on Laetare Sunday the priests wear the color rose as a symbol of joy, instead of the usual Lenten color of purple. The rose color illustrates that Easter, the day we rejoice of Christ’s resurrection and His conquering sin and death, is not far off.
With over half of the Lenten journey behind us and Jesus arising from the dead in just a few more weeks, make it a priority to take renew your hope of the Resurrection by rejoicing on Laetare Sunday. Here are some ideas for you to celebrate Laetare Sunday…
1. Take 5 minutes for some one-on-one time with God reading your favorite scripture reading or playing a song that uplifts and brings joy to your heart, such as the famous “Hallelujah” song by Rufus Wainwright from the movie “Shrek”.
2. Invite friends or family over for a special meal. Use rose-colored napkins or serve a rose-colored drink, such as strawberry lemonade, and share why you are highlighting the color rose.
3. Meditate on Psalm 100, “Make a Joyful Noise Unto the Lord” and read it aloud to your family, and ask them to share which line they like best and why.
4. Watch the movie The Ten Commandments and ponder how God, giving us these Commandments, can bring us true freedom and joy, rather than considering them as rules and restrictions.
5. Have each family member recall and share what they feel is the most joyful moment in their lives.
6. Think about what you can do to bring others joy this week. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or visit someone that lives alone, or is ill or sad. Take someone flowers, write a note, or send a text to someone you appreciate.
7. Make a list of the many joys in your life, and take a moment to thank and praise God for your blessings and His goodness.
8. Even if you haven’t yet decided to do anything for Lent, it is not too late. On this day for rejoicing, recharge for the last stretch of Lent. If you are looking for some suggestions, refer to my previous blog, 10 Ways to Grow in Virtues and Holiness this Lent.
Laetare Sunday is marvelous gift to encourage us to persevere along our Lenten journey so we can arrive at our destination, and soak in the amazement and wonder of God and experience true joy this coming Easter.
To dive deeper in your knowledge of learning and living the 10 Commandments on a daily basis in order to experience true joy and freedom, visit our 10 Commandments Page that corresponds to each of the 10 Commandments.
God’s Recipe for a Wonderful Life is now on the Catholic Radio Network! Tune in each Sunday at 8am Central Time to hear how the Commandments are God’s solution to the chaos & confusion of our world!
