1st Sunday of Advent (C)

Inspire in Us the Practice of Good (2011-2013):

Sunday Reflections for Liturgical Years 2011 (A), 2012 (B), and 2013 (C)

1st Sunday of Advent (C), December 2, 2012

Liturgical readings


Jeremiah 33:14-16
Psalm 25
1 Thessalonians 3:12 - 4:2
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

"Pray constantly..."


Not many Catholics see the value of constant prayer. But this contributes much to spiritual alertness to our mortality, and consciousness of the need for God and His salvation. Jesus Himself tells His disciples to pray constantly, for it will guard them against all indulgence, drunkenness and worldly cares. The Lord meant this counsel not only for His disciples, but to all people of all cultures who will believe in His words. For by praying constantly in faith, all who believe will be given "the strength to escape whatever is in prospect" (as He says in this Sunday's gospel for Advent). With constant prayer and the gift of faith, all can "stand secure before the Son of Man".


What does Catholic spirituality say about "constant prayer"? Maybe we think that this ideal is incompatible with a busy life in today's modern context. But the counsels of spiritual masters can convince us that it is an ideal possible if it is taken to heart (and to practice). Below are some quotes that can give us ideas for our own personal prayer:


"the remembrance of Jesus...with each breath." (St. John Climacus)


"we must pray literally without ceasing - without ceasing - in every occurence and enjoyment of our lives." (St. Elizabeth Seton)


"those words that struck you when you were praying: engrave this in your memory..." (St. Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer)



From the time of Jesus, to St. John Climacus (7th century), to St. Elizabeth Seton (18th century), to St. Josemaria Escriva (20th century), and to our present Eucharistic celebrations, the spirit of constant prayer is kept aflame in preparation for the Parousia (the Second Coming of the Lord). We do not know when this will happen. But it is wise to be prepared (like the 5 wise virgins in the parable of the 10 bridesmaids). If we faithfully join in the constant prayers of the Church, and do what is asked of our state, we need not worry of "dying of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the earth". For even if the "powers in the heavens will be shaken", we can learn daily to wait with joy for the salvation promised by the Lord.

Points for reflection: How can we keep aflame the spirit of constant prayer in our hearts? What can we resolve to do to avoid a direction to "indulgence, drunkenness and worldly cares" this Advent-Christmas?