Friends, on this second week of Advent, we continue our journey of hope and waiting for the coming of Christ. Today, the church invites us to celebrate the marvels that God is about to work for us in a couple of weeks from now. This season of Advent, we wait in joyful hope for that “Day of the Lord” when his work will be complete in us. Brothers and sisters, all the readings of this Sunday are wake-up calls for us to prepare for the great encounter with the Lord, who is to come soon. So, while our first reading announces that “God wishes to show the splendor of Christ to all nations,” the second reading reminds us of “the Lord’s Day.” This wake-up call is summed up in the prophecy of John the Baptist in today’s gospel. The readings of this second Sunday of Advent, encourage us to prepare for Christ’s coming with joyful hearts, mutual support, and clear paths. Each reading brings a unique perspective, reminding us of God’s faithfulness, the importance of community, and the need for personal transformation. As we journey through Advent, let these reflections inspire us to grow in faith and love, drawing closer to God and each other. Lord, help us prepare our hearts for Your coming. Guide us to remove obstacles that keep us from You. Strengthen our love and faith as we journey together in this life.
Friends, the first reading of today compares the city of Jerusalem to an aggrieved widow who had her children snatched from her arms by brutal violence; she is sitting down grief-stricken, wearing her mourning clothes and refusing all comfort. In Israel the woman who lost her husband or son was supposed to manifest her despair by wearing clothes of mourning, covering her head with a veil, and sitting on the ground, refusing to prepare food, without washing or using scents. Brothers and sisters, what historical period is all this referring to? It was the time the Babylonians had invaded Israel, devastating it and deporting its inhabitants. Jerusalem, like a mother, had watched them as they left in chains, led by cruel soldiers, she was convinced that she was not going to see them again. Many years passed. The period of mourning was a long one, but one day prophet Barush appeared and addressed the aggrieved city and announced the great news. Prophet Baruch invites the people to take off their garments of sorrow and put on the beauty of God’s glory. This symbolizes a transformation from despair to hope. It reminds us that God is always ready to restore us, no matter how far we have strayed. Brothers and sisters, Baruch speaks of God leading His people back with mercy and justice. This journey back to God is not just a physical return but a spiritual one. As we prepare for the coming of Christ, we are called to examine our hearts and return to God with joy and trust. The reading, emphasizes that Advent is a time for spiritual renewal and hope.
Friends, God promises to make the path smooth and fill the valleys, making the journey easier. This imagery shows that God removes the obstacles that hinder our return to Him. As we reflect on the first reading of today, we can be encouraged that no matter the mountains or valleys in our lives, God is ready to help us overcome them. The Second Sunday of Advent Year C reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His desire to bring us back to Him in joy and hope.
Friends, in the second reading of today, Paul begins by thanking God for the Philippians’ faith and their partnership in spreading the gospel. This gratitude is a reminder of the joy that comes from working together in faith. It shows that our journey towards God is not meant to be walked alone but with the support and encouragement of others. Brothers and sisters, Paul expresses confidence that God, who began a good work in the Philippians, will bring it to completion. This assurance can comfort us, reminding us that God is always at work in our lives. Even when we face challenges, we can trust that God is guiding us and helping us grow in faith.
Friends, Paul’s prayer for the Philippians is that their love may abound more and more, filled with knowledge and insight. As we prepare for Christ’s coming, we too should pray for growth in love and understanding. This prayer encourages us to deepen our relationships with others and with God. Brothers and sisters, the Second Sunday of Advent Year C calls us to be active partners in the gospel, supporting one another and growing in faith and love.
Friends, in the Gospel of today, John the Baptist urges us to make our paths straight, which means removing anything that stands between us and God. We all face different challenges, such as pride or comfort, which can hinder our spiritual journey. This Advent, we are called to address these obstacles and make room for the Lord. John the Baptist’s message was compelling because people were overwhelmed by the difficulties of their time. He offered them hope by announcing that change was coming and they needed to be ready. This preparation wasn’t passive; it required active effort. John’s call to baptism was a call to leave behind old habits and prepare for something new. It was about transforming their hearts and lives to welcome Jesus.
Friends, as Christians, we share in the prophetic mission through our baptism. John the Baptist proclaimed God’s work, and we are also called to reveal God through our lives. Our actions and words should reflect our faith and help others encounter Jesus. However, to do this effectively, we must first confront and overcome our obstacles. The Second Sunday of Advent Year C reminds us that by actively preparing our hearts and lives, we can better guide others towards Christ. Brothers and sisters, as we wait and prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ this season, may the Almighty God fill us with the strength and patience we need to persevere without fainting. May our encounter with Christ this season restore the joy of our salvation. Friends, the Second Sunday of Advent Year C encourages us to prepare for Christ’s coming with joyful hearts, mutual support, and clear paths. The Lord be with you …. May the almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have a Blessed Sunday and a Fruitful New Week to You
I Wish You and Your Family a Very Prayerful Second Sunday of Advent Season
Pray with Us the Online Rosary Every Monday @ 8 pm.
By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
