Brad Reynolds

Gaudete

Because Christmas is almost here
Because dancing fits so well with music
Because inside baby clothes are miracles.
Gaudete
Because some people love you
Because of chocolate
Because pain does not last forever
Because Santa Claus is coming.
Gaudete
Because of laughter
Because there really are angels
Because your fingers fit your hands
Because forgiveness is yours for the asking
Because of children
Because of parents.
Gaudete
Because the blind see.
And the lame walk.
Gaudete
Because lepers are clean
And the deaf hear.
Gaudete
Because the dead will live again
And there is good news for the poor.
Gaudete
Because of Christmas
Because of Jesus
You rejoice.

"Gaudete," which is the Latin word for "rejoice," is the Third Sunday in Advent.

Brad Reynolds, S.J., a photographer and artist in residence at Gonzaga University, Spokane, Wash., is also the author of several mystery novels. His poem is taken from America; The National Catholic Weekly (December 11, 2006): See http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=5183