Dear brothers and sisters, today marks the beginning of a new liturgical year, a season of waiting, hope, and preparation. Advent invites us to pause, reflect, and realign our lives with God’s promises, as expressed so beautifully in today’s readings.
The prophet Jeremiah, in the First Reading, speaks of a coming fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel and Judah: “I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land.” These words were spoken during a time of despair and exile. Yet, amidst the darkness, Jeremiah proclaims hope—a Savior will come who will establish justice and peace. For us, this “just shoot” is Christ, the Messiah. Advent reminds us that this promise was fulfilled in Jesus’ first coming and points us forward to His second coming when His reign will be fully realized.
In our Second Reading, St. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to grow in love and holiness as they await the return of Christ: “May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all.” Paul’s exhortation is a call to action. Waiting for Christ’s coming is not a passive activity but an active, transformative process. Love is at the heart of this preparation—love for God and for one another. This love strengthens our hearts and helps us live in a way that reflects the holiness of God.
The Gospel from Luke presents a sobering yet hopeful message. Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and great turmoil that will precede His coming in glory. These apocalyptic images may instill fear, but Jesus’ words are not meant to paralyze us. Instead, He tells us: “Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” For believers, these signs are not the end but the beginning of God’s ultimate restoration.
However, Jesus also warns against complacency: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life.” Advent is a season that urges us to wake up. The “drowsiness” Jesus warns about can manifest in many forms: materialism, busyness, or the overwhelming worries of life. These distractions can cloud our vision and dull our anticipation of His coming.
How, then, can we prepare ourselves this Advent?
First, embrace hope. Like the people of Israel in Jeremiah’s time, we may face personal or collective struggles. But Advent assures us that God is faithful to His promises. Christ has come, and He will come again to make all things new. This hope gives us strength to endure and courage to face challenges.
Second, grow in love. St. Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians invites us to reflect on our relationships. Are we increasing in love for those around us? Advent calls us to reconcile, to serve, and to share God’s love generously. Love is the hallmark of a life prepared for Christ’s return.
Third, remain vigilant. Jesus’ call to “pray and be vigilant” challenges us to stay spiritually alert. This might mean setting aside time for daily prayer, reading Scripture, or participating in the sacraments. Vigilance is not about fear but readiness, a readiness rooted in trust and faith.
As we light the first candle on the Advent wreath, its flame reminds us that Christ, the Light of the World, is nearby. It also challenges us to reflect His light in a world that often seems overshadowed by darkness. Advent invites us to prepare our hearts so that, whether in joy or trial, we may confidently stand before the Son of Man, ready to welcome Him with open arms.
Let us journey through this season with hope, love, and vigilance, trusting that the One who came as a child in Bethlehem will come again in glory. And until that day, let us live as His disciples, proclaiming through our lives the promise: “The Lord our justice.”