Pastor's Desk

Second Sunday of Advent – C

Heralds of Good News!

2nd Sunday of Advent – C

“Jerusalem, take off your robe of mourning and misery; put on the splendor of glory from God forever. . .  for God will show all the earth your splendor. . .”

     The prophet Baruch provides an uplifting message of hope for the people of Israel. They are free from bondage of the Babylonians now and the prophet wants them to live in “the peace of justice, and the glory of God’s worship.”  The prophets Baruch and Isaiah encouraged the people to continue believing and trusting in God. When Jerusalem was by conquered by the Babylonians everything was destroyed; their temple, their homes, many people were killed and there was total devastation. Many Jews were enslaved in Babylon, which was in modern day Iraq. So, we hear the hopeful words of the prophet Baruch.

     For the past year and a half, we have lived in somewhat of a misery of our own. With the onslaught of the COVID-19 Coronavirus and the devastation that it brought. Thousands have lost their lives to this virus, some from right here in our parish, many businesses have closed, and thousands of people have lost jobs, and others are fearful to work or to receive the vaccine. It has truly been a frightening time in our history.

     But all three of our readings this Sunday provide us with hope. Baruch reminds the Israelites that times are getting better, and the Lord will lead them in joy by the light of his glory, with his mercy and justice for company. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians praises them for their “partnership with the gospel and prays that their love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, and to discern what is of value.”

     And then John the Baptist takes center stage. John becomes the herald, through his voice crying out in the desert, that God is sending us a Savior. John’s message is a good one for us. John’s message reminds us of our need for spiritual house cleaning, so that, as St. Paul says: “that the one who began the good work in us will continue to bring it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” 

     Now some may not believe John’s message is “good news” because his voice cries for repentance. However, if we read the gospels, we find out what John was talking about: repentance, changing our hearts; not taking our faith for granted or the fact that we can simply call ourselves Christians or Catholics without doing good works.

     Our liturgy wants us to ask ourselves today what we need to do to live more fully as God wants us to live. God sent His Son into the world to show us the way to our true home. When he comes, will he find us prepared?

     May all the prophets and especially John the Baptist, help us to know what Advent is all about. May their message of hope and their call to prepare be more than just a voice crying out in the wilderness.

     May our Advent be one of Prayer and Preparation for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ!