May his name be blessed forever;
as long as the sun his name shall remain.
In him shall all the earth be blessed;
all the nations shall proclaim his happiness.
(Psalm 72:17)
When I reflect on your attributes, Lord God, I don’t think of your happiness, but this translation reminds me that “happy” and “blessed” are synonyms. If our happiness comes from you, of course you are happy. You who made us in your image exhort us to rejoice.
As we enter this final week of Advent, this year exactly an octave before Christmas day, let our longing for you melt into joy.
How can I proclaim your happiness today? I will celebrate at Mass with my parish. I will visit and encourage my neighbors. Please help me to let go of whatever hinders joy.