Paul’s Letter to the Philippians offers a rich insight filled with joy and hope: The Lord is near! May Christ’s presence in our lives encourage us to embrace the gift of faith and live it in the world.
Here’s a quick look at the themes for the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent.
1st Reading – Baruch 5:1-9
The prophet encourages the people to take off the robe of mourning and misery and put on the splendor of glory from God.
God has commanded; he is leading the people in joy and bringing them back in glory.
Psalm 126:1-6
“The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”
The people who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
2nd Reading – Philippians 1:4-6,8-11
Paul confidently prays with joy for the people that they will continue their good work until the day of Christ Jesus.
This good work includes love, knowledge, discernment, purity and the fruit of righteousness.
Gospel – Luke 3:1-6
Luke sets the context of John the Baptist with the names of history, such as Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate and the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas.
John’s ministry is understood in light of the words of Isaiah…prepare the way of the Lord!
St. Paul continues his exhortation in the Letter to the Romans, reminding us all that whether we live or die we are the Lord’s. May this insight guide us in our interactions with one another today.
The Psalm response touches a deep longing in our hearts: to have relationships where those around us breathe joy and love into our lives. This is God’s response to all creation! The Lord takes delight in his people!
When the going gets tough, the tough turn to the Lord! The Psalm response articulates the source of our strength, especially in difficult moments in life.
The Psalm Response offers a beautiful proclamation in the context of the two feeding miracles from the first reading and the Gospel. May our hearts give joyful praise to God as we count our blessings this day!
The power of the Holy Spirit and the joy of the resurrection shine forth in the apostles as they confront the threat of death for proclaiming the Good News of Jesus. Their witness inspires us to face our fears as we embrace our faith.
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