Rejoicing in Other’s Blessings

Author: Chrisma C. Bangaoil
May we rejoice in the blessings of others, free from envy, and grateful for the good they bring.
Reflection Date: December 23, 2024 Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Daily Readings: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Luke 1:57-66

Today’s Gospel narrates the birth of John the Baptist and how Elizabeth’s relatives and neighbors rejoiced with her. They all recognized what had happened as a great favor from God.

This is such inspiring imagery—people rejoicing in the blessings someone else received. Unfortunately, we don’t often see this when people are crippled by envy. Sadly, this happens even among those who serve in the Church. Instead of rejoicing in the good others are able to do, some people spread rumors, seeking to destroy the good that others accomplished.

This is a chronic sickness that Pope Francis often speaks out against. We tend to focus on magnifying the bad news or inventing it, rather than rejoicing in the good news about others.

We pray that we may be open to the grace to rejoice in the blessings and good works of others. We pray that we learn to be grateful for others, not seeking their misery or misfortune.

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Let us rejoice in the blessings and good works of others, fostering gratitude and unity, not envy or division.