First Reading: (Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 80:2ac and 3b, 15-16, 18-19)
R. Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.
Gospel: (Matthew 17:9a, 10-13)
Here Jesus reveals the deeper meaning of Elijah’s return: He has already come in John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Christ’s arrival. Yet, John was not recognized for who he was, and would suffer for his fidelity. In the same way, Jesus Himself will suffer at the hands of those who do not recognize Him.
Reflection
Today’s mass readings shine with Advent fire, not only warmth, but a refining blaze that purifies and prepares the heart for the Lord’s coming.
Elijah’s life teaches us that God’s word is not comfortable, it convicts, challenges, and calls us to renewal. His example reminds us that true faith is active, not passive. When we let Scripture and God’s voice burn away our complacency, we find hearts ready to receive Christ.
A Cry for Restoration
Psalm 80 becomes our prayer in Advent: “Lord, make us turn to you.” This is not a casual request, it’s a longing for God to revive what is weak, heal what is fractured, and restore what has wandered away. As the psalm pleads for God’s face to shine upon us, we too are invited to seek His presence with honesty and depth. May we focus our attention on Him and not the fleeting materialistic world we inhibit.
Recognizing God’s Voice
In the Gospel, Jesus links Elijah to John the Baptist, the prophet who prepared Him. But John went unrecognized and rejected. How often do we fail to see God at work because He comes in unexpected ways, in quiet voices, in humble servants, or in moments of suffering?
Saint Lucy’s Witness
Saint Lucy, whose memorial we celebrate today, is a powerful companion for this journey. Her name, meaning “light,” is a sign of the radiant faith that does not dim even in the face of death. Like her, we are called to let our faith burn brightly, a witness that draws others toward Christ just as Elijah’s fire called Israel back to God. Happy feast day to all who bears the name Lucy especially my aunty Lucy.
God bless you
Pal Ronnie
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