As we turn our calendars to December, we begin the season of preparation for the coming of the Lord into the world and into our individual lives. However; Advent is not only a time in which we wait for the Lord to come to us in some sort of passive way; we are reminded today that our lives should also be a journey to God.
Isaiah’s vision captures the dual movement that he preached to the people of Israel. First, people of every nation, not just the Chosen People, were expected to stream toward God’s holy mountain, the place on earth closest to God. At the same time, the word of the Lord would flow down that mountain to bring peace and justice to all the nations of the world. God will come to us, but we must also come to God.
We hear in the second reading and the Gospel an urgency of changing our selfishness and bad behavior-“the night is far advanced, the day is at hand” (Romans 13:12). Jesus warns his disciples that the Son of Man will come at an hour we do not expect. (Matthew 24:44). If we are honestly preparing our hearts to receive Jesus, we must stop doing things that injure or demean others and “put on the armor of light.” Advent is more than four weeks of shopping, decorating, sending cards, gifts, parties, and enjoying the season to be jolly. It’s about receiving the Lord in every person, place, and event of our lives. And also, giving the Lord to all those we encounter.
May your season of Advent be a joyful preparation to receive the Lord in a new and fuller way, and in turn, give Him to others.
Love, Peace, Joy
Fr. Bob
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