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November 27, 2021Reflection for 1st Sunday of Advent: Nov. 28, 2021
Jeremiah 33:14-16: Though a short passage, it brims large with hopefulness; announcing the restoration of the monarchy in Israel and Judah. Readers are promised that a descendant of David will be raised up… a just ruler who will be trustworthy and powerful. The people are promised safety, stability and protection. Consider the fact that this promise came at a very vulnerable time for Israel. The people desperately needed reassurance as Jerusalem was occupied by Babylonian forces and there was no indication that this captivity was going to end anytime soon. The peoples’ commonly shared hope for the coming of the prophesied Messiah was a core element of their national and spiritual identity that endures to this day. We also, as Christians pray for the recognition by all, of Jesus as Messiah and King, when He comes again.
Psalm 25: “To You, O Lord, I lift my soul.” Today’s psalm antiphon expresses our offering of our souls, with hopefulness and with docile submission to and trust in God. The psalmist begs God to make Himself known and asks God to teach us our Creator’s ways. The psalmist admits humbly our collective need for God’s guidance. Then, the psalmist observes how God is able to guide humble souls to justice and show them the way to Heaven. Ponder anew that one has to be humble and listen to God in order to benefit from and understand God’s teachings. Lastly, the psalmist proclaims God’s worthiness of our faith and trust, given God’s unwavering love of us, loyalty to us, and kindness to those who obey Him, with awe, fear and respect. Obedient souls are given ears to listen to God and wisdom to recognize, understand and live virtuous lives intimately close to God. Humble and obedient souls can absorb the graces that living the Covenant offers.
1 Thes 3:12-4:2 This beautiful passage features a prayer from St. Paul that we increase in our love for one another. Loving others strengthens our hearts by making us more kind, generous, humble, wise and merciful. Such virtues will fill our hearts with joy and peace, which can only come from nearness to God and intimate connection with God, through His people. Paul instructs us, as disciples, to give away and share all that we have received from God; such as love, forgiveness, overwhelming generosity, and self-sacrifice. We are asked to offer ourselves in prayerful service to others, by donating our time, talents and resources. We, who have received all, are urged to give all.
Luke 21:25-28; 34-36 Today, Jesus foretells frightening and distressing events that will precede His Second Coming. These sobering events and wonders include celestial signs in the sun, moon and stars. There will be disruptions in nature… roaring of the oceans and immense waves, destructive enough to terrify people. We’re told that even the Heavens will be turbulent and threatening.
Have hope! Jesus then reveals that while these distressing events are occurring, He, Himself will come again, in a cloud, with great power and glory! Reflect that both faithful and non-faithful people will witness the distressing events that will precede Jesus’ coming at the end of time. However, Jesus reminds faithful people that they have nothing to fear, and that, instead, they can be full of joyful anticipation and hope, while witnessing the coming of our Messiah, Savior and Redeemer. Jesus then cautions all, further to be alert and vigilantly prepare for His coming. If we’ve been loving, obedient, faithful servants, we can meet Jesus with joy and peace.
Let’s get ready!
Deacon Matt
