Friends, the term Advent comes from two Latin words, “Adventus” or “Advenire,” which means “to arrive” or “to come” respectively. Advent marks the beginning of the Church’s liturgical new calendar. It is a four-week period leading up to Christmas. For us Christians and Catholics in particular, it means a time of expectation and preparation for the Lord’s coming. So, the prophecy of John the Baptist; “A voice of one calling in the desert, prepare a way for the Lord” (Mk 1, 3), echoes loudly to us this season. Advent is a time when we expect mercy and liberation because our Lord, the King of the universe whose solemnity we celebrated last Sunday, comes to reign over his people. This Advent is unique because it ushers in the year of mercy and liberation. Therefore, Christ comes to pardon and liberate us from fears and all types of operations.
Friends, the prophet is addressing the people of Israel who are in a situation similar to the old man who arrives home to find his house and belongings destroyed by fire. They are just back from their long exile in Babylon and have come to Jerusalem in ruins. Their country has become a lair of Jackals (Jr 10:22); looking round they see only the trail of death and destruction left behind by the Babylonian soldiers. They begin to reconstruct and rehabilitate their country, but the work is going at a very slow pace. They are sad and discouraged and keep asking themselves; why have we been punished by so many disasters? Has God abandoned us? Has he forgotten the promises he made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David?
Friends, in the first reading of today, the prophet is announcing to these desperate people of Israel a message of hope, the days are coming when the Lord will fulfill the promise of happiness he made to the house of Israel. With these words, he once again gives courage to the people. Life begins again in earnest; the houses destroyed by war are rebuilt, the land is dug and prepared to receive the seed, the cattle increase in number, the faces of men become serene, and smiles reappear on the lips of women and children. Brothers and sisters, did we ever experience situations like the one of the Israelites just back from Babylon?
Friends, Jeremiah’s message is a source of hope. Even in difficult times, we can trust that God is working for our good. His promises give us strength and courage. When we feel uncertain or afraid, we can remember that God has a plan for us, just as He did for the people in Jeremiah’s time. Brothers and sisters, trusting in God’s promises are also found in the Gospel reading for the 1st Sunday of Advent Year C. Jesus tells us to stand up and lift our heads because our redemption is near. This means we should not be afraid but trust that God will fulfill His promises. Jesus will return, and we need to be ready. As we begin Advent, let’s focus on trusting in God’s promises. Are we placing our hope in Him? Are we confident that He will guide us and fulfill His word? By trusting in God’s promises, we can prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus and find peace in His faithfulness.
Friends, in the second reading of today, Paul calls us to grow in love and holiness. Paul prays for the Thessalonians to increase in love and to live in holiness. This message is important as we begin Advent. We are called to love more and live better lives. Brothers and sisters, Paul’s prayer reminds us to focus on our relationships. Increasing love means caring for others, helping those in need, and showing kindness. These actions reflect God’s love in our lives. By loving more, we prepare our hearts for Jesus’ coming. Living in holiness means following God’s teachings. It means avoiding sin and striving to do what is right. Paul urges us to live in ways that please God. This can be challenging, but it is important for our spiritual growth. Holiness helps us to be ready for Jesus. As we start Advent, the second reading encourages us to examine our lives. Are we growing in love? Are we living in holiness? By focusing on these themes, we can prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus and deepen our faith.
Friends, the gospel of today, reminds us to be watchful and prayerful. Jesus warns about signs in the sun, moon, and stars. These signs can seem scary, but Jesus tells us not to be afraid. Instead, we should stand tall because our redemption is near. This teaches us to be ready for Jesus’ return. Brothers and sisters, being watchful means staying alert and paying attention to how we live. We should avoid things that distract us from God. Instead, we should focus on prayer and good deeds. Jesus calls us to live in a way that pleases God. This makes us ready for His coming.
Friends, prayer is a key theme in the readings for the 1st Sunday of Advent Year C. Jesus urges us to pray for strength to face challenges. Prayer helps us stay connected to God and strong in our faith. It reminds us that we need God’s help every day. By praying, we grow closer to Him and prepare our hearts for Jesus’ return. Therefore, this is a call for us to intensify and strengthen our prayer life. Prayer purifies the soul; it casts away all fears and prepares and strengthens us. Prayer provides us the spiritual energy, courage, and confidence to stand firm while waiting for our Lord’s coming. Intensive prayer this season rather than being carried away by mundane preparations is what the Lord wants from us.
Friends, may our Lord find us awake and ready when he comes to liberate us from the fear that holds us captive. So, let us join the psalmist to say; “To you, O Lord I lift my soul, make me know your ways, and teach me your paths” (Ps. 34, 4). 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 a Very Prayerful Advent Season Ahead of you
Pray with Us the Online Rosary Every Monday @ 8 pm.
By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
