Today we observe the 1st Sunday of Advent, where we prepare the way for the ardent light which springs forth due to the coming of the Messiah.
From the prophet Isaiah we are told, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” As Jesus Himself says in the Gospel of Saint John, “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.” We must now stand firm in our practice of faith and proclaim, “Let us walk in the light of the Lord!”
The light of Christ proclaims a great hope to all of us. Through the Messiah’s birth humanity has been rescued from the darkness of sin and death. Through this birth we have been given a way towards the reality of eternal life. This light provides direction in the midst of all that we come to endure in this life.
From the Book of Romans we were told, “Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.” Such a thought causes us to look inwardly and to realize that this light is much stronger than the darkness. The more that we allow ourselves to reflect upon such a light, the more we will be able to overcome sin, fear, and despair.
During this time of year we especially long for the coming of such light because of how early it grows dark. We must realize that such gloominess will be overcome through the rising of the sun. Eventually the day will grow longer and so too in our life we must look to the Lord so that all that ails us may be overcome.
The sacrament of confession assists us in allowing the light of Christ to penetrate into the midst of the darkness of sin. This is the perfect way to begin this season of preparation. On Thursday we will hold our Advent Penance Service, where eight priests will assist in hearing confessions. Take advantage of this or one of our other confession opportunities.
From the Gospel of Saint Matthew we are told of the need to be prepared for the coming of the Son of Man for we know not the time nor the hour. We can only prepare for such an encounter if we are willing to step out of the darkness and enter into the light. If we allow ourselves to remain in such darkness, we will be caught off guard at the Lord’s coming.
May this Advent season continue to assist us in preparing the way for the Lord’s coming. Let us be willing to welcome this light into every corner of our life. He has come in order to dispel the darkness, so that we may walk with renewed hope towards the One who saves.
No comments:
New comments are not allowed.