Jeremiah 33:14-16
Psalm 24
1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2
Luke 21:25-28.34-36
BE READY, THE LORD IS COMING!
Today is the first Sunday of Advent, which marks the beginning of a new liturgical year. Advent is a period of waiting and of a double preparation: preparation for the commemoration of the Birth of Christ at Christmas and preparation for the second coming of Jesus Christ. It is therefore a period of joyful hope.
In the first reading, through the prophet Jeremiah, God assures his people that he is going to fulfill his promise. He is going to make a branch grow for David and his people will be saved and dwell in confidence (Jer. 33:14-16). This prophecy was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus of Nazareth. This coming is what we are preparing to commemorate at Christmas.
However, Jesus himself tells us that he will come again in power and glory as the Judge of the universe. Talking about this second coming in the gospel, he uses images that may create fear and anxiety in us. Nevertheless, it is a message of hope, for it will be a day of our liberation. It is also an invitation to get prepared (Luke 21:25-28.34-36). But how do we get prepared?
Three ways are proposed to us. First, we should watch ourselves, by not indulging in debauchery, drunkenness and the cares of life. For St Paul in the second reading, we should live blameless lives, that is, lives of good conducts that please God. Second, we should stay awake. To stay awake means not sleeping, being active and aware of what is going around us. Thus, Jesus invites us to be spiritual “gate men”, to stand erect like soldiers for his coming. Third, we should pray at all times so as to keep in touch with God always. That is to say, being in constant dialogue with the Lord and building a relationship with him.
If we are able to fulfill these three things, we should not be afraid or worry about anything. For the Lord’s coming will be for our redemption. May he grant us the strength to get ready to meet him whenever he comes. Amen
Happy New Year!!!
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