2nd Sunday of Advent (B)

(Edited) Sunday reflections: (From) years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

December 7, 2014
Liturgical readings
Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Psalm 85
2 Peter 3:8-14
Mark 1:1-8

"He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

Examining the readings. The first reading from the book of Isaiah prefigures the person of John the Baptist, and refers to the first coming of the Lord (the first Advent). The second reading, from the second letter of Peter, refers to Christ's coming again - a second Advent, which the reading describes in cataclysmic terms: "the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar, and the elements will be dissolved by fire". The gospel describes the prophet John preparing the way for Jesus. In the gospel, John baptizes the people Israel, and leads them to repent before God. For the people Israel had been unfaithful to the covenant established between them and the Lord - a covenant broken, since the time of their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The hope and anticipation of a Messiah in biblical times reminds this present generation (and the next generations), of the time when the Lord comes again: in the Parousia, (or Second Coming). Advent always reminds of this event. But instead of fear and anxiety, all are encouraged to see the Parousia in the context of the final redemption of all. Advent returns every year to help prepare for such an event. And with the modern outlook commonly focused on Christmas parties, family get-togethers, giving of gifts, and donations to charitable causes, it can be balanced by listening well to the Advent messages in Mass and living out that message at work or at home. Every priest-presider teaches what Advent is and what the spirit of anticipation for Christmas means for all. If the faithful listen well, a greater understanding of one's Advent-faith in Christ is obtained.

By making a dwelling place for Christ in one's heart, it is easier to be understanding and patient - in a time when it is difficult to be so (especially when dealing with traffic, long lines, and the common stress of purchasing). The season calls all to slow down with all that is needed for the season; to take more opportunities to thank God for all the blessings He has given each and everyone: life, family, friends, work, and resources to spend for gifts. Aside from charity, other virtues to practice include: humility (to acknowledge our finitude and return to the Lord), vigilance (to keep sober and awake), gratitude (to thank God and give justice to our Creator), joy (in anticipation of the coming birth of a Redeemer) and peace (that even with rising conflicts and calamities in the world, each of our lives are all in the saving hand of the Lord).

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"What we await are new heavens and a new earth where, according to his promise, the justice of God will reside...while waiting for this, make every effort to be found without stain or defilement, and at peace in his sight." (2 Peter 3)