First Sunday of Advent

Today, we begin another Liturgical Year. With the celebration of the First Sunday of Advent, the Church throughout the world marks a new chapter in its year-long reflection on the saving mysteries of Christ. Advent (from the Latin “Adventum”) means “coming.”

The Advent season, whose liturgical color is violet, has two phases. In the first two weeks of Advent, the Church focuses its reflection on the final coming of Christ. As we begin a new year, we are invited to meditate on the last days. We begin with the end in mind. For a follower of Christ, it is important that we always remember that our goal is the inheritance of the Kingdom of God.

The last two weeks of the Advent season, however, are devoted to the preparation for the commemoration of the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. As in the season of Lent, Advent has a penitential character. Christians from all walks of life are encouraged to go on spiritual retreats and recollections as well as avail themselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These, among other devotions, make us spiritually prepared for the coming of Jesus.

The readings today speak of the end times. The First Reading from the book of the Prophet Jeremiah recounts the words of the Lord: “The days are coming when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah.” (Jer. 33:14). This is a promise of a happy and secure life – a promise of justice and peace.

In the Gospel reading, Jesus told his disciples, “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36) Saint Paul advised the early Christian communities to prepare for the coming of the Lord. He said the Lord will judge us according to how we have loved our neighbor. “May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father.” (1 Thes. 3:12).

In this season of hopeful anticipation of the coming of Christ, let us heed the call of Christ and the Church. As we begin the season of Advent, let us prepare for the coming of Christ by making our lives pleasing to the Lord