‘You must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Today marks the beginning of the new liturgical year and the season of Advent, a time of watching and waiting, of longing and preparation for the Lord.
Isaiah (First Reading) presents his vision of a peaceful world, where weapons of conflict are turned into tools to rebuild communities, as people grow together in God’s love.
The Psalm continues this prayer for peace and security, with a reminder to look to the Lord for guidance on how to live in unity, peace and joy.
In the Second Reading, Paul urges the Romans to wake up; to abandon thoughts and behaviour that keep God in the dark, and to live in the light of his love. He is direct and uncompromising, but reassuring that God’s salvation is as attainable as putting on new clothes.
The theme of awakening features again in the Gospel, as Jesus calls on people to ‘be ready’ for God’s salvation by living in love and faith. Jesus uses examples ranging from the dramatic events of Noah and the flood, the mundane image of workers in the field and at the mill, and the unexpected thieves breaking into a house. All of these highlight that God is constantly inviting us to follow his example in all that we do.
As Pilgrims of Hope in this Jubilee year, we reflect on how we might cast off old habits that keep us in the dark and walk in the light and hope of God’s eternal love.
