The Coming
The word “Advent” is from the Latin “Adventus” which means “coming.” Advent is the beginning of the new Liturgical Year in the Church as we switch from Year C to Year A and begin reading from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew quotes Jesus speaking about the need for wakefulness, for watchful waiting, for the coming of the Son of Man.
The Gospel selection is perfect for the season, which is intended to be a period of preparation, much like Lent. Prayer, penance and fasting are appropriate during Advent as we prepare for the celebration of Our Lord’s birth on December 25.
Matthew’s Gospel focus is not on the birth of Jesus, but rather his second coming in glory at the end of time. The message in the Gospel passage is more about the manner of waiting rather than preparation for the Lord’s coming. Jesus compares our waiting to that of a homeowner who knows the plans of a thief. He tells us to be watchful and prepared for the moment of his return, for like the thief, it may come at any time.
Nick O’Hearn, parishioner and RCIA team member
No comments:
Post a Comment