Fr. Albertus Herwanta, O.Carm
The readings of the first Advent Sunday invite us to pay attention to the hope God has promised. "The days are coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah" (Jeremiah 33:14). We believe that God has fulfilled his promise in Jesus Christ, Son of David.
The people of Israel wait for the Messiah, an ideal descendant of King David. He will bring security, peace, and justice to them. Unlike the people of Israel, we wait for the second coming of Jesus. Now he lives among us and accompanies our life journey towards the end of the earth.
In today's gospel, Jesus prophesies the signs and portents that will accompany his second coming and encourages us to be expectant, optimistic, vigilant, and well-prepared. "When these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads, because your redemption is at hand" (Luke 21:28). Jesus wants us to stand firm and face the future with confidence in God's providence.
As God has fulfilled his promise to the people of Israel in Jesus Christ, the Messiah, so Jesus Christ will fulfill what he promised. Therefore, we are to prepare ourselves in the best way in accordance with his instruction.
How can we do that? First and foremost, by allowing Jesus to be reborn daily in our lives. The Advent season gives us a special opportunity to make it happen. Saint Paul invites us to conduct ourselves to please God (1 Thessalonians 4:1) and live in holiness.
Advent is not only a time where we prepare for Christmas celebrations, but it is also a preparation to welcome him on his second coming, where he will completely fulfill his prophecy. He is trustworthy, and we can always rely on him, especially in the midst of uncertainty in our daily lives.
"The Lord is coming, always coming. When you have ears to hear and eyes to see, you will recognize him at any moment of your life. Life is Advent; life is recognizing the coming of the Lord." (Henri Nouwen). Do we believe? (*)