Sunday, Dec. 15, is the Third Sunday of Advent. Mass readings: Zephaniah 3:14-18a; Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:10-18.

In today’s second reading, St. Paul gives us a plan that (if we work it) will set the stage for deeper inner peace.

Rejoice in the Lord always. … Let your moderateness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Of supreme importance in the Christian life is requesting, receiving and cultivating the gift of the Lord’s presence. To become more consciously and constantly aware of his presence is to be filled with joy and peace. The text mentions moderateness. The Greek word is epieíkeia, which means gentleness. Such an attitude is common when one is joyful and unafraid. By contrast, an unbending and unyielding attitude often bespeaks fear.

As we become more aware of God’s presence, and thus more serene and less inwardly conflicted, we can insist on what is true as well as express ourselves more moderately and calmly. 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition … present your requests to God.

Paul also says that the power of God is only a prayer away. Whatever it is, take it to the Lord in prayer. Ponder deeply how he has delivered you from times of trouble and come to your aid in a variety of ways. 

 … with thanksgiving …

We need to count our blessings. Every day billions of things go right while only a handful go wrong. But we tend to focus on the few things that go wrong. We must discipline our minds to see the wider reality of our rich blessings, which gives us great peace and a serene mind.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Gradually, serenity becomes a deeper and more stable reality for us. As this serenity grows, it screens out the negativity of this world and the demons of discouragement. Having this peace allows us to see the Lord; seeing the Lord deepens that peace — and the cycle grows and continues!

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me — put it into practice.

What you feed, grows. Focus on the greater, better and lasting things of God. Ponder his plan, his truth, his glory and his priorities.