Today is the First Sunday of Advent
First Reading: (Isaiah 2:1-5)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 122)
Response: We shall go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Alleluia: (Luke 21:36)
“Be vigilant and pray, that you may have strength to stand before the Son of Man.”
Gospel: (Matthew 24:37-44)
Reflection
Today at mass, the priest mentioned that today is the beginning of the season of Advent, Adventus, the “coming.” New calendar church year began. And over the next 25 days, the Church is inviting us to prepare for Christ who comes to us at Christmas, who comes to us daily in grace, and who will come again in glory.
During this time, two great figures guide our preparation: Isaiah and John the Baptist. Their message is simple and urgent:
“The Savior is coming. Prepare the way of the Lord.”
1. The Mountain of the Lord, A Place of Joy and Blessing
Isaiah speaks of God’s house as a mountain that draws people from every nation, because in God’s presence there is:
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joy
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peace
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healing
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fulfillment
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blessing
Advent calls us to ascend that mountain with open hearts. God is inviting us into His presence, into His joy.
2. The Time Is Now
St. Paul reminds us: “It is full time to wake from sleep.”
Advent is not passive waiting, it is an active awakening. Paul calls us to cast off darkness and put on the armor of light.
He warns against:
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drunkenness
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promiscuity
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quarrels
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jealousy
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living for the flesh
Fix our relationships
Instead, he invites us to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” letting His light shape our words, choices, and desires.
3. Watchfulness: The Heart of Advent
The Gospel urges us: “Stay awake.”
Jesus’ coming is certain, but the hour is unknown. Advent is not about predicting His arrival, it is about preparing our hearts so that whenever He comes, He finds us ready.
4. Preparing Our Hearts and Homes
Christ comes not only to visit our physical homes but to dwell in our hearts.
Advent asks us:
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Are our hearts prepared?
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Are our homes places where Christ is welcome?
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Do people experience joy, peace, and welcome when they come to us, as they do in the house of the Lord?
“We shall go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.”
Can others come to us and rejoice because they find kindness, patience, gentleness, and peace?
5. Becoming a Living Advent Invitation
Just as the mountain of the Lord draws people into joy, may we also become places of welcome, where others meet Christ through our words, compassion, and example.
Amen
Happy Sunday
Pal Ronnie
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