First Sunday of Advent

Cycle c

On December 1 2024

I will fulfill the promise

Today, we begin the season of Advent, a time of waiting, preparation, and hope. It is a season that invites us to reflect on the promise of God’s coming into our lives, not only as a historical event but as a daily reality. The readings of this First Sunday of Advent remind us of God’s faithfulness, the need for readiness, and the transformative power of His promises.

The First Reading from the prophet Jeremiah (Jer 33:14-16) speaks of God’s promise: “I will fulfill the promise”. This promise points to the Messiah, a descendant of David, who will bring justice and righteousness to the world. Unlike worldly expectations of a powerful king, this Messiah would come humbly, born in a small village among shepherds. We are called to ask ourselves: Who is the Messiah for us today? What promises does He fulfill in our lives? Jeremiah emphasizes the Messiah’s defining characteristic—justice. But what does it mean to act justly in our world today? Do we align our understanding of justice with God’s vision, or are we swayed by worldly notions? Advent calls us to reflect on how we fulfill our promises and live with integrity, preparing ourselves for the day when God’s promise will be fully realized.

The Responsorial Psalm (Ps 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14) gives us a prayerful response to this promise: “To you, O Lord, I lift my soul”. In the busyness and turbulence of life, we can lose our way, overwhelmed by emotions and distractions. The psalmist reminds us to turn to God as our guide, asking, “Teach me your paths, guide me in your truth”. The psalm reflects the enduring presence of God’s covenant and highlights His qualities of goodness and uprightness. He guides the humble and teaches them His ways. Advent is a time to embrace humility, allowing God to direct our lives and renew our trust in His promises.

The Second Reading (1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2) exhorts us to live in holiness. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to grow in love for one another and to conduct their lives in a way that pleases God. Holiness is not a one-time achievement but a continuous journey of transformation. Paul’s words challenge us to examine how we live out the teachings we have received. Are we growing in love and striving for holiness, or have we become complacent? (“… as you received from us how you should conduct yourselves to please God and as you are conducting yourselves you do so even more”) This season invites us to deepen our relationship with God and others, ensuring that our actions align with the hope we profess.

In the Gospel (Luke 21:25-28, 34-36), Jesus speaks of signs. These signs point to the fulfillment of God’s promise, echoing the hope expressed in Jeremiah. Yet, Jesus warns us to remain vigilant, avoiding distractions that dull our hearts. Advent is a time of spiritual awakening. Jesus urges us to pray for strength, to stay alert, and to prepare our hearts for His coming. The challenge is clear: Are we ready to receive Him as a little child? Can we recognize the signs of His presence in our daily lives (read between the lines)? Advent is not just about preparing for Christmas but about welcoming Christ into every aspect of our lives, living with a sense of purpose and expectancy. Let us beware that our hearts do not become drowsy from carousing, drunkenness, or the anxieties of daily life. Instead, let us remain vigilant at all times and pray for the strength needed to face the daily challenges.

As we journey through this season of Advent, let us hold fast to the common thread of today’s readings: God’s promise. It is a promise of justice, guidance, holiness, and ultimate fulfillment. Advent invites us to prepare our hearts, to live with vigilance and hope, and to trust that God’s promises are faithful. Let us use this time to renew our commitment to God, allowing Him to transform us so that we may truly welcome Christ into our lives. May this season be one of joyful anticipation as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. Amen.