Homily

Advent comes from the Latin term ad-ventus or ad-venire, meaning “to arrive” or “to come.” It is a four-week period leading up to Christmas, marking the beginning of the Church’s liturgical calendar.

For us Catholics, it means a time of expectation and preparation for the Lord’s birth. So, the prophecy of John the Baptist: “. A voice of one calling in the desert, prepare a way for the Lord, make straits his paths” (Mk 1, 3) echoes loudly this season of Advent.

Advent is when we expect freedom and peace because our Lord, the King of the Universe whose solemnity we celebrated last Sunday, has the power to reign over everything and us, his people.

In the first reading, the prophet Jeremiah waits and hopes for a descendant of King David who will bring security, peace, and justice to God’s people. Christians believe that Jesus fulfilled Jeremiah’s waiting. Jeremiah’s prophecy assures us that Jesus will fulfill God’s promise, and hence, we need not be afraid because the Lord will come to be with us to give us a new life.

In the second reading, Paul urges the Thessalonians to continue and intensify the life of holiness and mutual love he has taught them as they wait for “the coming of our Lord Jesus.”

Today’s gospel reminds us of something significant in our Christian journey. It calls us to be awake and watchful for the coming of the Lord. Therefore, this is an invitation to pray more these days. Prayer purifies our souls and casts away all fears. It prepares us with joyful hope.

Importantly, prayer gives us the spiritual energy, courage, and confidence to stand firm in moments of weakness and discouragement. Therefore, we must pray more personally and in our family in Advent with an open and welcoming heart for God. Let us get excited about preparing ourselves for Christmas, but at the same time, let us get closer to the Lord spiritually.

May our Lord find us awake and ready when He comes in glory. So, let us join the psalmist in proclaiming, “To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.”

Peace be with you,

Fr. Americo Santos