Second Sunday of Advent
Baruch 5:1-9; Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11; Luke 3:1-6
Ps. 126 “The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”
As we continue through this time of Advent, in preparation for the feast of Christmas, as well as the second Coming of Jesus, we are sharing in a time of Joyful Expectation.
Having recently received the gift of an Advent calendar, I reflected on the excitement of a child opening the window for each day and being delighted by the surprise that was revealed. Some Advent calendars for children have a chocolate or other sweet treat behind the window, which is immediately devoured. There are other calendars for adults with messages of Hope and Good will. Each day has its own special wish or blessing. And so, the daily Scriptures can serve as our Advent calendar.
The readings for this second Sunday of Advent are filled with messages of Joy. In the reading from Baruch, the Israelites are reminded that God has done great things for them and is leading them out of their exile by the light of His Glory. His Mercy and Justice are with them and so they will experience God’s Peace.
Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, consoles the Israelites with his promise to always pray with Joy for them. He reminds them of the need to remain pure and blameless in preparation for the day of Christ, filled with the fruits of righteousness that come through Jesus.
And finally, in the Gospel reading, Luke speaks of the Mission of John the Baptist and his Advent message to “Prepare the way of the Lord and make straight his paths.” The Promise that “all flesh shall see the Glory of God” should fill us with Hope and Joy as we continue on the Journey of Advent toward Christmas and the the Gifts of God’s Love waiting to be shared with a world in need of Peace and Justice for all.
As we prepare for the feast of Christmas this year, let us pray with Joy for one another as we await a new revelation of God’s abiding Presence with us in Jesus Who is the Savior of the world. Amen.
Sr. Mary Doris, OP