December 1st Reflection

First Reading: (Isaiah 4:2–6)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 122:1–9)

Response: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Alleluia: (Psalm 80:4)

Response: Alleluia, alleluia.
“Come and save us, LORD our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.”

Gospel: (Matthew 8:5–11)
A Roman centurion approaches Jesus, asking for healing for his paralyzed servant. He humbly declares, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Jesus marvels at his faith, greater than any in Israel, and foretells that many from east and west will join Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the heavenly banquet.

Reflection

We are officially in the season of Advent and the the readings today highlight faith, holiness, and God’s protective presence. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God purifies His people and shelters them with His glory. Advent is a time of cleansing and preparation as we await Christ’s coming.

• The Psalm calls us to rejoice in God’s dwelling, echoing the Advent theme of longing for the New Jerusalem, the fullness of God’s kingdom.

• The Gospel shows the centurion’s extraordinary faith. He recognizes Jesus’ authority and trusts His word completely. His humility, “I am not worthy”, is echoed in the words we pray at every Mass before Communion.

Advent invites us to deepen our trust in Christ’s word. Like the centurion, we are called to approach Jesus with humility and confidence, believing that His presence brings healing and salvation. God’s glory is not distant, it is our shelter, our peace, and our hope.

God bless you.

Pal Ronnie