Christians were called to embrace joy, patience and unwavering trust in God as Rev. Fr. Marcel Ajoket, the Parish Priest of The Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Parish, Dakabela and the Diocesan Communications Director, delivered a powerful homily on Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent.
Preaching in line with the day’s liturgical theme, Rev. Fr. Ajoket reminded the faithful that Gaudete Sunday is a moment of joyful anticipation, inviting believers to rejoice in the Lord even as they wait patiently for His coming.
Drawing from the readings of the day, he emphasized that Christian joy is not dependent on life’s circumstances but is rooted in faith and trust in God’s perfect plan.
“Rejoice in the Lord and be patient for His timing,” he urged, encouraging Christians to resist the temptation of frustration and anger toward God, especially during difficult moments.
According to him, many people tend to grow annoyed with God when faced with hardship, forgetting that God works according to His divine wisdom and timing.
“You should not get annoyed with God, He has His perfect plan for you,” Rev. Fr. Ajoket said.
He explained that whether life feels hard or comfortable, believers are called to remain close to God, trusting that He knows exactly what He is doing in their lives.
The priest acknowledged the reality of suffering and pain, noting that it is natural for human beings to question God when challenges arise.
He cited common questions people ask in moments of distress, such as, “I am in pain and in hard times, where are you, God?” However, he cautioned the faithful against concluding that God is absent simply because prayers seem unanswered or miracles are not immediately visible.
“It is not good to say that God is not there because He is not helping you in your problems,” he stressed.
“It is not that when God is not performing miracles in your life, that God is not there. No.” He reassured the congregation that God remains present even in silence and suffering, working behind the scenes for the good of His people.
Rev. Fr. Ajoket further called upon Christians to avoid doubt and instead strengthen their belief in God, reminding them that everyone has a perfect time prepared by the Lord.
He emphasized that God’s blessings are not delayed but are carefully arranged according to His divine plan.
“Everyone has his or her perfect time, and the Lord is preparing the best for everyone in His own way,” he said.
He encouraged the faithful to wait patiently for God’s timing while remaining steadfast in prayer and hope.
Highlighting patience as a key virtue for Christians, especially during the Advent season, Rev. Fr. Ajoket challenged believers to see waiting not as punishment but as a process that shapes faith and deepens trust in God.
“If you want joy in your life, be patient,” he said, adding that patience opens the heart to experience true and lasting joy in Christ.
He reminded the congregation that all good things require patience and perseverance, assuring them that better days lie ahead for those who remain faithful.
“Everything needs patience, there are good things ahead in Christ,” he noted.
Concluding his homily, Rev. Fr. Ajoket offered words of hope and encouragement to those burdened by present difficulties.
He reassured them that painful situations are temporary and should not define their faith or outlook on life. “The situation disturbing you is for a minute time,” he said. “One day God will see you through.”
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