First Sunday of Advent
Lectionary: 3
Lectionary: 3
The days are coming, says the LORD,
when I will fulfill the promise
I made to the house of Israel and Judah.
In those days, in that time,
I will raise up for David a just shoot ;
he shall do what is right and just in the land.
In those days Judah shall be safe
and Jerusalem shall dwell secure;
this is what they shall call her:
“The LORD our justice.”
when I will fulfill the promise
I made to the house of Israel and Judah.
In those days, in that time,
I will raise up for David a just shoot ;
he shall do what is right and just in the land.
In those days Judah shall be safe
and Jerusalem shall dwell secure;
this is what they shall call her:
“The LORD our justice.”
Responsorial
PsalmPS 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14
R. (1b) To you,
O Lord, I lift my soul.
Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my savior,
and for you I wait all the day.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
Good and upright is the LORD;
thus he shows sinners the way.
He guides the humble to justice,
and teaches the humble his way.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
All the paths of the LORD are kindness and constancy
toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
The friendship of the LORD is with those who fear him,
and his covenant, for their instruction.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;
teach me your paths,
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my savior,
and for you I wait all the day.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
Good and upright is the LORD;
thus he shows sinners the way.
He guides the humble to justice,
and teaches the humble his way.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
All the paths of the LORD are kindness and constancy
toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
The friendship of the LORD is with those who fear him,
and his covenant, for their instruction.
R. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
Reading 21 THES 3:12—4:2
Brothers and sisters:
May the Lord make you increase and abound in love
for one another and for all,
just as we have for you,
so as to strengthen your hearts,
to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father
at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen.
Finally, brothers and sisters,
we earnestly ask and exhort you in the Lord Jesus that,
as you received from us
how you should conduct yourselves to please God
and as you are conducting yourselves
you do so even more.
For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
May the Lord make you increase and abound in love
for one another and for all,
just as we have for you,
so as to strengthen your hearts,
to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father
at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen.
Finally, brothers and sisters,
we earnestly ask and exhort you in the Lord Jesus that,
as you received from us
how you should conduct yourselves to please God
and as you are conducting yourselves
you do so even more.
For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
AlleluiaPS 85:8
R. Alleluia,
alleluia.
Show us, Lord, your love;
and grant us your salvation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Show us, Lord, your love;
and grant us your salvation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GospelLK 21:25-28, 34-36
Jesus said to his disciples:
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,
and on earth nations will be in dismay,
perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
People will die of fright
in anticipation of what is coming upon the world,
for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
And then they will see the Son of Man
coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
But when these signs begin to happen,
stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.
“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy
from carousing and drunkenness
and the anxieties of daily life,
and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.
For that day will assault everyone
who lives on the face of the earth.
Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength
to escape the tribulations that are imminent
and to stand before the Son of Man.”
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,
and on earth nations will be in dismay,
perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
People will die of fright
in anticipation of what is coming upon the world,
for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
And then they will see the Son of Man
coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
But when these signs begin to happen,
stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.
“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy
from carousing and drunkenness
and the anxieties of daily life,
and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.
For that day will assault everyone
who lives on the face of the earth.
Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength
to escape the tribulations that are imminent
and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Meditation: "Look up, your redemption is drawing near"
How good are you at
reading signs, especially signs which God sends our way? The people of Jesus'
time expected that the coming of the Messiah would be accompanied by
extraordinary signs and wonders. Jesus' first coming was clouded in mystery and
surprising wonderment: Even though he was the rightful heir to the throne of
King David, he was born in obscurity in a cave at Bethlehem, near the place
where David had watched over his father's sheep some 1000 years before. A choir
of mighty angels chose to announce the good news to a small band of lowly
shepherds keeping their night watch nearby. Learned magi from the East, who
recognized a great omen in the heavenly sky, followed the star until it led
them to Bethlehem. They alone found the child with his mother and paid him
homage as the newborn king of Israel. When Jesus humbly submitted to baptism at
the River Jordan, the heavenly Father spoke audibly for those nearby who were
willing to listen, "This is my beloved Son with whom I am well
pleased."
Signs which point to the Lord's coming to reign with
power and great glory
Jesus, during his public ministry performed numerous signs: turning water into wine, calming the storm at sea and walking on water, multiplying seven loaves of bread in the wilderness to feed 5000 people, healing the blind and the lame, expelling demons, and raising the dead. While many believed in Jesus, many also questioned his signs and refused to believe his claim to be the Messiah sent by the heavenly Father to suffer and die for our sake and for our salvation on the cross of Calvary. Jesus' last and greatest sign during his earthly ministry was his rising from the tomb on the third day after his crucifixion. This sign demonstrated his power to defeat death itself and to give abundant everlasting life to all who believed in him.
Jesus, during his public ministry performed numerous signs: turning water into wine, calming the storm at sea and walking on water, multiplying seven loaves of bread in the wilderness to feed 5000 people, healing the blind and the lame, expelling demons, and raising the dead. While many believed in Jesus, many also questioned his signs and refused to believe his claim to be the Messiah sent by the heavenly Father to suffer and die for our sake and for our salvation on the cross of Calvary. Jesus' last and greatest sign during his earthly ministry was his rising from the tomb on the third day after his crucifixion. This sign demonstrated his power to defeat death itself and to give abundant everlasting life to all who believed in him.
Jesus told his disciples that his final great sign
would be his return in glory at the end of the age. He would come this second
time as Judge and Merciful Redeemer to vindicate those who accepted him as Lord
and Savior and to punish those who rejected him. Jesus declared that this last
sign at the end of the world would be unmistakable. All would recognize and
"see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory"
(Luke 21:27). The title which Jesus most often used to describe his Messianic
role was the expression "Son of Man". This title comes from the Book
of the prophet Daniel, chapter 7. The image of a "Son of man coming in a
cloud with power and great glory" was given in a vision where the prophet
Daniel saw heaven opened before the throne of God (Daniel 7:13-14). In this
vision God showed Daniel a royal investiture of a human king before God's
throne. This king was invested with God's authority and was given power to
judge and rule over the whole earth. His reign would last for all ages.
The Jews of Jesus' day were looking for a Messiah King
who would free them from the oppressive rule of pagan Rome. Many had hoped that
Jesus would be their victorious conquerer. They missed, however, the most
important sign and reason for the Messiah's first coming - his death on the
cross as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world and his triumphant
victory over death and Satan when he rose on the third day. The Lord Jesus is
both the "Son of David", the rightful heir and Messiah King of Israel
whose reign will endure for all ages (Psalm 89:3-4,29,36-37) - and the
"Son of Man", chosen by God as the anointed ruler who will come at
the end of the age to establish a universal kingdom of peace, righteousness,
and justice for all the nations and peoples of the earth.
The Messiah comes to "execute justice and
righteousness in the land"
The prophet Jeremiah foretold the day when God would send his Messiah King to "execute justice and righteousness in the land" (Jeremiah 33:15). Jesus is the fulfillment of this promise and every promise which God has made. The Lord Jesus, through the gift and working of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, assures us of his abiding presence and the promise that he will return again. His Holy Spirit gives us supernatural hope, and the strength to persevere with joyful confidence until the Lord comes again. What kind of hope does the Lord offer us? He gives us the hope of heaven, seeing God face to face, sharing in the fullness of his glory and everlasting life. When the Lord comes again as our Judge and merciful Redeemer he will right every wrong, vindicate every person who has accepted him as Lord and Savior, and remove all sorrow, pain, and death itself (Revelations 21:4). The world around us is plagued with greed, envy, strife, and uncertainty. It has lost hope in God and in his promise to restore the human race and all of creation when the Lord Jesus comes again.
The prophet Jeremiah foretold the day when God would send his Messiah King to "execute justice and righteousness in the land" (Jeremiah 33:15). Jesus is the fulfillment of this promise and every promise which God has made. The Lord Jesus, through the gift and working of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, assures us of his abiding presence and the promise that he will return again. His Holy Spirit gives us supernatural hope, and the strength to persevere with joyful confidence until the Lord comes again. What kind of hope does the Lord offer us? He gives us the hope of heaven, seeing God face to face, sharing in the fullness of his glory and everlasting life. When the Lord comes again as our Judge and merciful Redeemer he will right every wrong, vindicate every person who has accepted him as Lord and Savior, and remove all sorrow, pain, and death itself (Revelations 21:4). The world around us is plagued with greed, envy, strife, and uncertainty. It has lost hope in God and in his promise to restore the human race and all of creation when the Lord Jesus comes again.
Jesus' prophetic description of the end of time and
the day of judgment was not new to the people of Israel. The prophets had
foretold these events many centuries before. "Behold the day of the Lord
comes, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger to make the earth a desolation and to
destroy its sinners from it" (Isaiah 13:9-13; see also Joel 2:1-2;
Amos 5:18-20; Zephaniah 1:14-18). Jesus speaks of the second coming as a known
fact, a for certain event we can expect to take place. This coming will be
marked by signs that all will recognize; signs which will strike terror in
those unprepared and wonder in those who are ready to meet the Lord. When the
Lord returns he will establish final justice and righteousness over the earth
by overthrowing his enemies and by vindicating those who have been faithful to
him. The anticipation of his final judgment is a sign of hope for all who trust
in him.
Indifference and rejection of the
Gospel lead to destruction
What can keep us from recognizing the signs of the Lord's presence and his action today? Indifference and the temptation to slacken off – to become passive and lethargic or to fall asleep spiritually. It is very easy to get caught up in the things of the present moment or to be weighed down with troubles. The Lord knows our shortcomings and struggles and he gives us the strength to bear our burdens and to walk in his way of holiness. But there is one thing he doesn't tolerate: an attitude of indifference, being passive, not caring, and doing nothing when we could be actively seeking God and his kingdom! God is ready to give us fresh vision, hope, and grace to walk in his ways. He wants to work in and through us for his glory. That is why he expects more of us than we can do by ourselves. His grace enables us to actively watch for his action in our lives, and to actively pray for perseverance and endurance when we face trials and difficulties. The Lord gives us his strength to overcome temptation, especially from apostasy - the denial of the Lord Jesus out of fear or pride. God is ever ready to fill us with his strength and divine power. Is your heart hungry for God or is it weighed down by other things?
What can keep us from recognizing the signs of the Lord's presence and his action today? Indifference and the temptation to slacken off – to become passive and lethargic or to fall asleep spiritually. It is very easy to get caught up in the things of the present moment or to be weighed down with troubles. The Lord knows our shortcomings and struggles and he gives us the strength to bear our burdens and to walk in his way of holiness. But there is one thing he doesn't tolerate: an attitude of indifference, being passive, not caring, and doing nothing when we could be actively seeking God and his kingdom! God is ready to give us fresh vision, hope, and grace to walk in his ways. He wants to work in and through us for his glory. That is why he expects more of us than we can do by ourselves. His grace enables us to actively watch for his action in our lives, and to actively pray for perseverance and endurance when we face trials and difficulties. The Lord gives us his strength to overcome temptation, especially from apostasy - the denial of the Lord Jesus out of fear or pride. God is ever ready to fill us with his strength and divine power. Is your heart hungry for God or is it weighed down by other things?
Advent season reminds us that we are pilgrims and
exiles longing for our home with God
Many churches in the East and West, since the early first centuries of the Christian era, have marked special seasons to celebrate the central truths of the Christian faith. The Advent season which precedes Christmas and Epiphany reminds us that we are a pilgrim people, aliens and exiles in this age who long for our true home with God in his heavenly kingdom, and who await with joyful hope the return of the Lord Jesus at the end of the age. When will the Lord Jesus come again? No one but the Father in heaven knows the day. But it is a certain fact that we are living in the end times, the close of this present age! The end times begin with the first coming of Jesus Christ (his Incarnation which we celebrate at Christmas and Epiphany) and culminates in his final return on the Day of Judgment.
Many churches in the East and West, since the early first centuries of the Christian era, have marked special seasons to celebrate the central truths of the Christian faith. The Advent season which precedes Christmas and Epiphany reminds us that we are a pilgrim people, aliens and exiles in this age who long for our true home with God in his heavenly kingdom, and who await with joyful hope the return of the Lord Jesus at the end of the age. When will the Lord Jesus come again? No one but the Father in heaven knows the day. But it is a certain fact that we are living in the end times, the close of this present age! The end times begin with the first coming of Jesus Christ (his Incarnation which we celebrate at Christmas and Epiphany) and culminates in his final return on the Day of Judgment.
"Lord Jesus, may I never lose sight of the signs
of your presence in my life and the signs of your action in the world today.
Free me from spiritual dullness, indifference, and every distraction that would
keep me from you. May I never tire of listening to your word, seeking you in
prayer, and longing for your return in glory."
Daily Quote from the early church fathers: The coming of the Son of Man, by Cyril
of Alexandria (376-444 AD)
"He says that they
will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Christ
will not come secretly or obscurely but as God and Lord in glory suitable for
deity. He will transform all things for the better. He will renew creation and
refashion the nature of people to what it was at the beginning. He said, 'When
these things come to pass, lift up your heads and look upward, for your
redemption is near.' The dead will rise. This earthly and infirm body will put
off corruption and will clothe itself with incorruption by Christ's gift. He
grants those that believe in him to be conformed to the likeness of his
glorious body." (excerpt from COMMENTARY
ON LUKE, HOMILY 139)
1st Sunday in Advent – Cycle C
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
Introduction
There is evidence from the mid-4th century on concerning some period of preparation for the Christmas-Epiphany celebration. Length and emphasis varied from place to place. Some regions kept a relatively long Advent (from St. Martin’s feast, November 11); others, a rather brief one. In Rome the season evolved to a 4-week preparation focusing on the joyful celebration of the Lord’s Incarnation. In Gaul there was a longer, heavily penitential season emphasizing the Lord’s glorious advent at the end of time as Lord of history and judge of the universe. Roman practice from the 12th century, codified by the Council of Trent and enhanced by the greatly enriched lectionary of Vatican Council II, combines these different emphases. The violet vestments (with rose as an option on the 3rd Sunday) and the preaching of John the Baptist bespeak the penitential aspect which invites the people to reform. The Gloria is omitted, as during Lent, but for a somewhat different reason, as the official commentary on the revised Calendar notes: “So that on Christmas night the song of the angels may ring out anew in all its freshness.” On the other hand, there is a clear note of joyful expectation: The Alleluia is retained before the Gospel. There has been no mandatory Advent fast since the 1917 Code of Canon Law. The Ambrosian Rite in use throughout the area around Milan, Italy still observes a longer (6-week) Advent while the Eastern Rites in general observe a shorter “pre-feast” period before Christmas.
Advent is a time for looking both backward and forward. We look backward as we prepare to celebrate the historical birth of Jesus of Nazareth at Christmas. Before that birth people longed for the Messiah who would restore Israel to her former power. We identify with that ancient longing for restoration as we await Christ’s coming more fully into our lives and also as we await His second coming.
With that longing for restoration in mind, we recognize in Advent a time of preparation and anticipation. What we celebrate as having happened in the past points to what we anticipate is coming again. First, we recognize that Christ is born into our lives each day as we open ourselves to His grace and love. These moments of discovering birth in Christ are times when we can stand with the shepherds and hear glad tidings proclaimed. Advent is a season that prepares us to discover new birth happening over and over again for us in and thru Christ. We celebrate those birth times at Christmas. Second, we look forward in Advent to the culmination of Christ’s kingdom, when He will return in glory to fulfill the promise of wholeness as all creation responds to His healing presence. In our acclamation during the Eucharistic Prayer, we identify with this longing when we say “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again,” or similar words in the other acclamations. Through the Holy Spirit, this new age has already begun, and this too we celebrate.
1st Reading - Jeremiah 33:14-16
On the “Day of the Lord” Israel will be restored after a time of suffering. The writer uses beautiful language to remind us that Jesus is a descendent of King David, who was a son of Jesse.
14 The days are coming, says the LORD,
This is most likely just a way of calling attention to a very solemn proclamation as opposed to pointing to a specific time.
when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah.
Verses 15 & 16 reuse the Prophet’s oracle on the future king in Jeremiah 23:5-6; Jerusalem replaces Israel and is called by this king’s new name. In 23:6 both Judah and Israel share in the messianic salvation.
15 In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land. 16 In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure; this is what they shall call her: “The LORD our justice.”
“The LORD our justice” is a word-play on the current king’s name (Zedekiah means “my justice is Yahweh” vs. “Yahweh is our justice”). Isaiah had already given a similar name to this future king – Emmanuel (God is with us) (Isaiah 7:14).
2nd Reading - 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
Keeping with the advent theme of anticipation, our second reading urges us to perfect ourselves even more in preparation for our meeting Jesus when our end time has come.
3:12 [M]ay the Lord
This prayer is addressed to Christ as the Risen Lord. The preceding verse “Now may God himself, our Father, and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you” is addressed to the Father and to the Lord Jesus as if they act as one. This is the first inklings of the Trinity.
make you increase and abound
A superabundance
in love for one another and for all,
The whole community and beyond
just as we have for you,
The apostles serve as the example.
13 so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. (Amen.)
This petition focuses upon being prepared for the end times, the parousia (presence) of Jesus as Lord. Our hearts are to be strengthened because blamelessness and holiness are the qualities of fully realized existence in the end times. Zechariah also wrote of the end times (see Zechariah 14:5).
“This is a proof of superabundant love, that he not only prays for them by himself but even inserts his prayer in his epistles. Paul’s prayers demonstrate a fervent soul unable to restrain his love. The mention of his prayers also proves that Paul and Silvanus’ failure to visit them was not voluntary nor the result of indolence. It is as though Paul said: May God Himself shorten the trials that constantly distract us, so that we may come directly to you. ‘May the Lord make you to increase and abound.’” Do you see the unrestrained madness of love that is shown by these words? [Saint John Chrysostom (A. D. 398-404), Homilies on the First Epistle to the Thessalonians, 4]
4:1 Finally, brothers [and sisters],
A transitional expression linking the prayers and the teaching
we earnestly ask and exhort you
Diplomatic language which implies Paul’s authority
in the Lord Jesus
The source of his authority
that, as you received from us
Paul recalls his earlier instruction (see 1 Thessalonians 2:13 for a similar reference to this earlier teaching). Remember that Paul writes to congregations which he has established and now oversees (the title of bishop means “overseer”).
how you should conduct yourselves
He is addressing behavior.
to please God
Behavior with obedience to God as the aim. Saint Paul is a pastor – he commends and encourages.
– and as you are conducting yourselves – you do so even more. 2 For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
Again he refers to the earlier instructions. What is to be done is known, it’s just a matter of putting it into practice on a continual basis.
“There is only one calamity for a Christian, this being disobedience to God. All the other things, such as loss of property, exile, peril of life, Paul does not even consider a grievance at all. And that which all dread, departure from this life to the other world – this is to him sweeter than life itself. For as when one has climbed to the top of a cliff and gazes on the sea and those who are sailing upon it, he sees some being washed by the waves, others running upon hidden rocks, some hurrying in one direction, others being driven in another, like prisoners, by the force of the gale. Many are actually in the water, some of them using their hands only in the place of a boat and a rudder, and many drifting along upon a single plank or some fragment of the vessel, others floating dead. He witnesses a scene of manifold and various disasters. Even so he who is engaged in the service of Christ draws himself out of the turmoil and stormy billows of life and takes his seat upon secure and lofty ground. For what position can be loftier or more secure than that in which a man has only one anxiety, ‘How he ought to please God’? Have you seen the shipwrecks, Theodore, of those who sail upon this sea?” [Saint John Chrysostom (A. D. 371-378), To The Fallen Theodore, 2,4]
Gospel - Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
The season of Advent is launched in Cycle C with the apocalyptic writings of Saint Luke. These are times of expectant waiting. We must not grow tired or complacent but be ready and alert; able to read the signs of the times. Everything that happens, including suffering and trauma, has significance in understanding God’s presence and activity in creation.
As usual in apocalyptic writings, we deal here with the language of poetic truth, not literal truth. Hence it is futile to tie symbols to actual historical events in attempting to predict, for example, the exact date of Christ’s second coming.
If this reading sounds familiar, it should, as we heard the parallel text from Mark two weeks ago (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B). The time is just prior to Holy Thursday and Jesus is giving His final teachings to His apostles before His passion begins.
[Jesus said to His disciples:] 25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
The signs are not to be taken literally, but as an indication that all creation will announce the second coming. The whole universe will tremble at the Lord’s coming in power and glory (see Daniel 7:13-14).
26 People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads
In contrast with all those who will be cowering in fear.
because your redemption is at hand.
Because we are followers of Christ, we have confidence and hope and should not be fearful.
34 “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise 35 like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. 36 Be vigilant at all times and pray
Constant prayer is a persistent theme throughout Luke. Vigilance consists in making a constant effort which keeps us close to God.
that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
If we have lived as we should, the day we die will be a day of joy and not of terror. In meeting Christ we will not be meeting a judge who will find us guilty, but instead, He will embrace us and lead us into the house of His Father to remain there forever. Do I have assurance of my salvation? No, but I have absolute assurance that God will be true to His word and His word tells me that if I live the life He wants me to live, when my end time comes, I will be with Him in heaven. I also know that if I do what I want rather than what He wants, and do not reconcile myself with Him, I will not receive my inheritance.
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
Introduction
There is evidence from the mid-4th century on concerning some period of preparation for the Christmas-Epiphany celebration. Length and emphasis varied from place to place. Some regions kept a relatively long Advent (from St. Martin’s feast, November 11); others, a rather brief one. In Rome the season evolved to a 4-week preparation focusing on the joyful celebration of the Lord’s Incarnation. In Gaul there was a longer, heavily penitential season emphasizing the Lord’s glorious advent at the end of time as Lord of history and judge of the universe. Roman practice from the 12th century, codified by the Council of Trent and enhanced by the greatly enriched lectionary of Vatican Council II, combines these different emphases. The violet vestments (with rose as an option on the 3rd Sunday) and the preaching of John the Baptist bespeak the penitential aspect which invites the people to reform. The Gloria is omitted, as during Lent, but for a somewhat different reason, as the official commentary on the revised Calendar notes: “So that on Christmas night the song of the angels may ring out anew in all its freshness.” On the other hand, there is a clear note of joyful expectation: The Alleluia is retained before the Gospel. There has been no mandatory Advent fast since the 1917 Code of Canon Law. The Ambrosian Rite in use throughout the area around Milan, Italy still observes a longer (6-week) Advent while the Eastern Rites in general observe a shorter “pre-feast” period before Christmas.
Advent is a time for looking both backward and forward. We look backward as we prepare to celebrate the historical birth of Jesus of Nazareth at Christmas. Before that birth people longed for the Messiah who would restore Israel to her former power. We identify with that ancient longing for restoration as we await Christ’s coming more fully into our lives and also as we await His second coming.
With that longing for restoration in mind, we recognize in Advent a time of preparation and anticipation. What we celebrate as having happened in the past points to what we anticipate is coming again. First, we recognize that Christ is born into our lives each day as we open ourselves to His grace and love. These moments of discovering birth in Christ are times when we can stand with the shepherds and hear glad tidings proclaimed. Advent is a season that prepares us to discover new birth happening over and over again for us in and thru Christ. We celebrate those birth times at Christmas. Second, we look forward in Advent to the culmination of Christ’s kingdom, when He will return in glory to fulfill the promise of wholeness as all creation responds to His healing presence. In our acclamation during the Eucharistic Prayer, we identify with this longing when we say “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again,” or similar words in the other acclamations. Through the Holy Spirit, this new age has already begun, and this too we celebrate.
1st Reading - Jeremiah 33:14-16
On the “Day of the Lord” Israel will be restored after a time of suffering. The writer uses beautiful language to remind us that Jesus is a descendent of King David, who was a son of Jesse.
14 The days are coming, says the LORD,
This is most likely just a way of calling attention to a very solemn proclamation as opposed to pointing to a specific time.
when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah.
Verses 15 & 16 reuse the Prophet’s oracle on the future king in Jeremiah 23:5-6; Jerusalem replaces Israel and is called by this king’s new name. In 23:6 both Judah and Israel share in the messianic salvation.
15 In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land. 16 In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure; this is what they shall call her: “The LORD our justice.”
“The LORD our justice” is a word-play on the current king’s name (Zedekiah means “my justice is Yahweh” vs. “Yahweh is our justice”). Isaiah had already given a similar name to this future king – Emmanuel (God is with us) (Isaiah 7:14).
2nd Reading - 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
Keeping with the advent theme of anticipation, our second reading urges us to perfect ourselves even more in preparation for our meeting Jesus when our end time has come.
3:12 [M]ay the Lord
This prayer is addressed to Christ as the Risen Lord. The preceding verse “Now may God himself, our Father, and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you” is addressed to the Father and to the Lord Jesus as if they act as one. This is the first inklings of the Trinity.
make you increase and abound
A superabundance
in love for one another and for all,
The whole community and beyond
just as we have for you,
The apostles serve as the example.
13 so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. (Amen.)
This petition focuses upon being prepared for the end times, the parousia (presence) of Jesus as Lord. Our hearts are to be strengthened because blamelessness and holiness are the qualities of fully realized existence in the end times. Zechariah also wrote of the end times (see Zechariah 14:5).
“This is a proof of superabundant love, that he not only prays for them by himself but even inserts his prayer in his epistles. Paul’s prayers demonstrate a fervent soul unable to restrain his love. The mention of his prayers also proves that Paul and Silvanus’ failure to visit them was not voluntary nor the result of indolence. It is as though Paul said: May God Himself shorten the trials that constantly distract us, so that we may come directly to you. ‘May the Lord make you to increase and abound.’” Do you see the unrestrained madness of love that is shown by these words? [Saint John Chrysostom (A. D. 398-404), Homilies on the First Epistle to the Thessalonians, 4]
4:1 Finally, brothers [and sisters],
A transitional expression linking the prayers and the teaching
we earnestly ask and exhort you
Diplomatic language which implies Paul’s authority
in the Lord Jesus
The source of his authority
that, as you received from us
Paul recalls his earlier instruction (see 1 Thessalonians 2:13 for a similar reference to this earlier teaching). Remember that Paul writes to congregations which he has established and now oversees (the title of bishop means “overseer”).
how you should conduct yourselves
He is addressing behavior.
to please God
Behavior with obedience to God as the aim. Saint Paul is a pastor – he commends and encourages.
– and as you are conducting yourselves – you do so even more. 2 For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
Again he refers to the earlier instructions. What is to be done is known, it’s just a matter of putting it into practice on a continual basis.
“There is only one calamity for a Christian, this being disobedience to God. All the other things, such as loss of property, exile, peril of life, Paul does not even consider a grievance at all. And that which all dread, departure from this life to the other world – this is to him sweeter than life itself. For as when one has climbed to the top of a cliff and gazes on the sea and those who are sailing upon it, he sees some being washed by the waves, others running upon hidden rocks, some hurrying in one direction, others being driven in another, like prisoners, by the force of the gale. Many are actually in the water, some of them using their hands only in the place of a boat and a rudder, and many drifting along upon a single plank or some fragment of the vessel, others floating dead. He witnesses a scene of manifold and various disasters. Even so he who is engaged in the service of Christ draws himself out of the turmoil and stormy billows of life and takes his seat upon secure and lofty ground. For what position can be loftier or more secure than that in which a man has only one anxiety, ‘How he ought to please God’? Have you seen the shipwrecks, Theodore, of those who sail upon this sea?” [Saint John Chrysostom (A. D. 371-378), To The Fallen Theodore, 2,4]
Gospel - Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
The season of Advent is launched in Cycle C with the apocalyptic writings of Saint Luke. These are times of expectant waiting. We must not grow tired or complacent but be ready and alert; able to read the signs of the times. Everything that happens, including suffering and trauma, has significance in understanding God’s presence and activity in creation.
As usual in apocalyptic writings, we deal here with the language of poetic truth, not literal truth. Hence it is futile to tie symbols to actual historical events in attempting to predict, for example, the exact date of Christ’s second coming.
If this reading sounds familiar, it should, as we heard the parallel text from Mark two weeks ago (33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B). The time is just prior to Holy Thursday and Jesus is giving His final teachings to His apostles before His passion begins.
[Jesus said to His disciples:] 25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
The signs are not to be taken literally, but as an indication that all creation will announce the second coming. The whole universe will tremble at the Lord’s coming in power and glory (see Daniel 7:13-14).
26 People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads
In contrast with all those who will be cowering in fear.
because your redemption is at hand.
Because we are followers of Christ, we have confidence and hope and should not be fearful.
34 “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise 35 like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. 36 Be vigilant at all times and pray
Constant prayer is a persistent theme throughout Luke. Vigilance consists in making a constant effort which keeps us close to God.
that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
If we have lived as we should, the day we die will be a day of joy and not of terror. In meeting Christ we will not be meeting a judge who will find us guilty, but instead, He will embrace us and lead us into the house of His Father to remain there forever. Do I have assurance of my salvation? No, but I have absolute assurance that God will be true to His word and His word tells me that if I live the life He wants me to live, when my end time comes, I will be with Him in heaven. I also know that if I do what I want rather than what He wants, and do not reconcile myself with Him, I will not receive my inheritance.
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church,
Picayune, MS http://www.scborromeo.org
ADVENT: A TIME OF PREPARATION
Advent is the start of the liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church. This year, in the Liturgical cycle, is Year C, in which we read the Gospel of Luke. Advent is a period of preparation, extending over four Sundays, before Christmas. The Latin word adventus is the translation of the Greek word parousia, commonly used to refer to the Second Coming of Christ. The season of Advent anticipates the coming of Christ from two different perspectives. First of all, it is our celebration of Christ's birth at Christmas; second, it directs the mind and heart to His Second Coming at the end of time. It is also a season to be aware of the coming of Christ in our daily lives through grace. In the Roman Catholic Church, the official liturgical color for most of the Season of Advent is violet. The Third Sunday of Advent is traditionally called "Gaudete Sunday" (from Latin, meaning "Rejoice!), as the Entrance Antiphon of this Sunday's Mass is taken from Paul's letter to the Philippians: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near." (Phil 4:4-5b). On this Sunday, the priest may wear rose vestments, as a symbol of joy.
FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT (YEAR C)
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, LUKE 21:25-28, 34-36
(Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25; 1 Thessalonians 3:12--4:2)
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, LUKE 21:25-28, 34-36
(Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25; 1 Thessalonians 3:12--4:2)
KEY VERSE: "But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand" (v. 28).
TO KNOW: Jesus often used the phrase "Son of Man" (Aramaic, bar nasha) to refer to himself, calling to mind Christ's human nature. He is one of us. Although he came as a human being, Jesus is also the divine Son of God who will come again in glory. Luke used apocalyptic language from the Hebrew Scriptures to describe the signs that would accompany Christ's return at the end of time. The universe would be shaken in anticipation of God's redemptive power (Is 13:9-10; Joel 3:4). In the apocalyptic book of Daniel, one "like a Son of Man" ascended to the clouds of heaven to the throne of the "Ancient of Days" (Dn 7:13). This imagery depicted the exaltation of the oppressed Jewish people, and later described the fullness of God's saving power present in the Messiah. Jesus' disciples should not fear these events; they must stand erect, like those preparing for the Exodus, confident that their redemption was near. Advent is an opportunity to prepare ourselves for Christ's daily arrival in our lives.
TO LOVE: As you light the first candle of the Advent wreath pray for someone who needs Christ's light in his or her life.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to be alert to the signs of your presence.
NOTE: APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE
The word apocalyptic means "unveiling" or "revelation." Apocalyptic literature flourished among persecuted Jews and Christians from the second century before the coming of Christ to the second century of the Christian Era. Apocalyptic writing is crisis literature, the product of oppressed peoples. Basic to its belief is that the evil of a particular historical situation is so overwhelming that only God can rescue the victims and set things right. The apocalyptic author offers hope and encouragement in seemingly hopeless circumstances. The Book of Daniel is the only apocalyptic book in the Old Testament, and the Book of Revelation is the only apocalyptic book in the New Testament, although there are sections in both Testaments with apocalyptic elements.
The word apocalyptic means "unveiling" or "revelation." Apocalyptic literature flourished among persecuted Jews and Christians from the second century before the coming of Christ to the second century of the Christian Era. Apocalyptic writing is crisis literature, the product of oppressed peoples. Basic to its belief is that the evil of a particular historical situation is so overwhelming that only God can rescue the victims and set things right. The apocalyptic author offers hope and encouragement in seemingly hopeless circumstances. The Book of Daniel is the only apocalyptic book in the Old Testament, and the Book of Revelation is the only apocalyptic book in the New Testament, although there are sections in both Testaments with apocalyptic elements.
Hanukkah Begins at Sunset
The Jewish feast of Hanukkah begins on the 25 day of the month of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, and lasts for eight days. Many people think of Hanukkah as "the Jewish Christmas," but the two holidays have nothing to do with each other, except that they're celebrated at roughly the same time of year. The Hanukkah story involves a group of warriors led by Judas Maccabeus. In 164 BC they drove the Syrians out of Israel and reclaimed and purified the Temple, which had been desecrated. According to a story in the Talmud, when the Maccabees retook the Temple, they found only enough oil for one night to light the menorah (the eight branched candelabrum). Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight nights. The Temple was rededicated, and the Jews celebrated the miracle with an eight-day festival (1 Mc 4:36-59).
Sunday 2
December 2018
Week 1
Psalter. 1st Sunday of Advent.
Jeremiah 33:14-16. Psalm 24(25):4-5, 8-9, 10, 14. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 – 4:2. Luke 21:25-28, 34-36.
Jeremiah 33:14-16. Psalm 24(25):4-5, 8-9, 10, 14. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 – 4:2. Luke 21:25-28, 34-36.
To you, O
Lord, I lift my soul – Psalm 24(25):4-5, 8-9, 10, 14.
‘Stand erect, hold your heads high, for your liberation is at hand.’
‘Stand erect, hold your heads high, for your liberation is at hand.’
Jesus’
message to his followers is for all times. If Jesus is with us, nothing can
harm us permanently. Like Israel, as Jeremiah says, we will dwell in
confidence. In God’s good time, Jesus will come to us, healing any harm we may
have suffered. With Jesus on our side, what does it matter who or what is
against us?
But we
need to be patient, persevering in prayer, content to wait for our Advent. Dear
Lord, give me courage, give me trust, take away my crippling fears, lift me up
when I feel like dropping.
Blessed Rafal Chylinski
Saint of the Day for December 2
(January 8, 1694 – December 2, 1741)
 |
| Blessed Rafał Chyliński | photo by Mody76 |
Blessed Rafal Chylinski’s Story
Born near Buk in the Poznan region of Poland, Melchior Chylinski
showed early signs of religious devotion; family members nicknamed him “the
little monk.” After completing his studies at the Jesuit college in Poznan,
Melchior joined the cavalry and was promoted to officer rank within
three years.
In 1715, against the urgings of his military comrades, Melchior
joined the Conventual Franciscans in Krakow. Receiving the name Rafal, he
was ordained two years later. After pastoral assignments in nine cities, he
came to Lagiewniki, where he spent the last 13 years of his life, except for 20
months ministering to flood and epidemic victims in Warsaw. In all these
places, Rafal was known for his simple and candid sermons, for his generosity,
as well as for his ministry in the confessional. People of all levels of
society were drawn to the self-sacrificing way he lived out his religious
profession and priestly ministry.
Rafal played the harp, lute, and mandolin to accompany
liturgical hymns. In Lagiewniki he distributed food, supplies, and clothing to
the poor. After his death, the Conventual church in that city became a place of
pilgrimage for people throughout Poland. He was beatified in Warsaw in 1991.
Reflection
The sermons preached by Rafal were powerfully reinforced by the
living sermon of his life. The Sacrament of Reconciliation can help us bring
our daily choices into harmony with our words about Jesus’ influence in our
lives.
LECTIO DIVINA: 1ST SUNDAY OF
ADVENT (C)
Lectio Divina:
Sunday, December 2, 2018
The Manifestation of the Son of
man:
Beginning of the new times
Beware! It can happen at any time!
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
Beginning of the new times
Beware! It can happen at any time!
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
1. OPENING PRAYER
Lord Jesus, send Your Spirit to help us
to read the Scriptures with the same mind that You read them to the disciples
on the way to Emmaus. In the light of the Word, written in the bible, You
helped them to discover the presence of God in the disturbing events of Your
sentence and death. Thus, the cross that seemed to be the end of all hope
became for them the source of life and of resurrection.
Create silence within us so that we may listen to Your voice in Creation and in the Scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, Son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
Create silence within us so that we may listen to Your voice in Creation and in the Scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May Your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples on the way to Emmaus, may experience the force of Your resurrection and witness to others that You are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of You, Jesus, Son of Mary, who revealed the Father to us and sent us Your Spirit. Amen.
2. A READING OF LUKE 21:
25-28,34-36
a) A key to the reading:
The liturgical text of this Sunday leads us to meditate on Jesus’ discourse on the end of the world. Today, when we speak of the end of the world, reactions are quite varied. Some are fearful. Others are indifferent. Others begin to take life more seriously. Others still, as soon as they hear some terrible news say, “The end of the world is drawing near!” What is your opinion on this matter? How is it that at the beginning of the liturgical year, the first Sunday of Advent, the Church confronts us with the end of history?
Keeping these questions in mind, let us now try to read the text in such a way that it may challenge and question us.
In the course of our reading we shall try to concentrate not on the things that are fearsome, but on those that give us hope.
The liturgical text of this Sunday leads us to meditate on Jesus’ discourse on the end of the world. Today, when we speak of the end of the world, reactions are quite varied. Some are fearful. Others are indifferent. Others begin to take life more seriously. Others still, as soon as they hear some terrible news say, “The end of the world is drawing near!” What is your opinion on this matter? How is it that at the beginning of the liturgical year, the first Sunday of Advent, the Church confronts us with the end of history?
Keeping these questions in mind, let us now try to read the text in such a way that it may challenge and question us.
In the course of our reading we shall try to concentrate not on the things that are fearsome, but on those that give us hope.
b) A division of the text to facilitate
our reading:
Luke 21:25-26: There will be signs in sun and moon and stars.
Luke 21:27: The Son of Man will come on a cloud.
Luke 21:28: The rebirth of hope in our hearts.
(Luke 21:29-33: The parable of the fig tree).
Luke 21:34-36: An exhortation to watchfulness.
Luke 21:25-26: There will be signs in sun and moon and stars.
Luke 21:27: The Son of Man will come on a cloud.
Luke 21:28: The rebirth of hope in our hearts.
(Luke 21:29-33: The parable of the fig tree).
Luke 21:34-36: An exhortation to watchfulness.
c) The Text:
Jesus said to his disciples: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Jesus said to his disciples: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
3. A MOMENT OF PRAYERFUL
SILENCE
that the Word of God may penetrate and
enlighten our life.
4. SOME QUESTIONS
to help us in our personal
reflection.
a) What did you feel during the reading? Did you feel fear or peace? Why?
b) Did you come across anything in the text that gave you hope and courage?
c) What is it today that encourages people to have hope and to keep going?
d) Why is it that at the beginning of Advent, the Church confronts us with the endof the world?
e) What can we answer to those who say that the end of the world is drawing near?
f) How do we understand the image of the coming of the Son of Man on a cloud?
a) What did you feel during the reading? Did you feel fear or peace? Why?
b) Did you come across anything in the text that gave you hope and courage?
c) What is it today that encourages people to have hope and to keep going?
d) Why is it that at the beginning of Advent, the Church confronts us with the endof the world?
e) What can we answer to those who say that the end of the world is drawing near?
f) How do we understand the image of the coming of the Son of Man on a cloud?
g) Throughout history, or even today,
have there been false messiahs leading people astray? While it is easy to see
war and natural disasters, how might one be deceived by a false messiah?
5. A KEY TO THE READING
for those who wish to delve deeper into
the theme.
I. The context of Jesus’ discourse
The text of this Sunday’s Gospel (Lk
21:25-28,34-36) is part of the so-called “eschatological discourse”(Lk
21:8-36). In Luke’s Gospel, this discourse is presented as Jesus’ reply to a
question put to Him by the disciples. Looking at the beauty and greatness of
the temple of Jerusalem, Jesus had said: “Not one stone will be left standing!”
(Lk 21:5-6). The disciples were looking for more information from Jesus regarding
the destruction of the temple, and they asked: “Master, when will this happen
and what will be the signs to show that it is about to happen?” (Lk 21:7).
The aim of the discourse: to help
discern events.
In Jesus’ time (year 33), many people, when faced with disasters, wars, and persecutions, said “The end of the world is drawing near!” The communities of Luke’s time (year 85) thought the same. During the time of the destruction of Jerusalem (year 70) and the persecution of Christians which had now been going on for 40 years, there were those who said “God is no longer in control of the events of life! We are lost!” Hence the main point of the discourse is that of helping the disciples to discern the signs of the times so as not to be deceived by such sayings concerning the end of the world: “Beware not to allow yourselves to be deceived!” (Lk 21:8). The discourse presents several signs that help us in our discernment.
In Jesus’ time (year 33), many people, when faced with disasters, wars, and persecutions, said “The end of the world is drawing near!” The communities of Luke’s time (year 85) thought the same. During the time of the destruction of Jerusalem (year 70) and the persecution of Christians which had now been going on for 40 years, there were those who said “God is no longer in control of the events of life! We are lost!” Hence the main point of the discourse is that of helping the disciples to discern the signs of the times so as not to be deceived by such sayings concerning the end of the world: “Beware not to allow yourselves to be deceived!” (Lk 21:8). The discourse presents several signs that help us in our discernment.
Six signs to help us discern the events
of life.
After a short introduction (Lk 21:5), the discourse proper begins. Jesus enumerates, in an apocalyptic style, the events that can be seen as signs. It is important to remember that Jesus was living and speaking in the year 33, but that the readers of Luke were living and listening to the words of Jesus about the year 85. Many things had happened between the years 33 and 85, for instance: the destruction of Jerusalem (year 70), persecutions and wars were everywhere, along with natural disasters. Jesus’ discourse announces these events as taking place in the future. But the community sees these things in the past, as having already taken place:
First sign: the false messiahs who will say, “It is I! The time is at hand!” (Lk 21:8);
Second sign: war and rumors of war (Lk 21:9);
Third sign: nation will rise against nation (Lk 21:10)
Fourth sign: earthquakes, hunger and pestilence everywhere (Lk 21:11);
Fifth sign: persecution of those who proclaim the word of God (Lk 21:12-19);
Sixth sign: the siege and destruction of Jerusalem (Lk 21:20-24).
When they heard Jesus’ proclamation, the Christian communities of the year 85 might have come to this conclusion: “All these things have come to pass or are in the process of happening! All this is happening according to a plan foreseen by Jesus! Therefore, history is not slipping from God’s hands!” Especially regarding the 5thand 6th signs they could say, “This is what we are experiencing today! We have already reached the 6th sign!” Then comes the question: How many signs are there left before the end comes?
In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus says about all the seemingly very negative things, “These are just the beginning of birth pangs!” (Mk 13:8) Although birth pangs are very painful for a mother, they are not signs of death but of life! They are no reason for fear, but for joy and hope! This way of reading the events brings calm to all. As we shall see, Luke expresses this same idea but in different words (Lk 21:28).
After this first part of the discourse (Lk 21:8-24) comes the Gospel text of the Mass of the first Sunday of Advent.
After a short introduction (Lk 21:5), the discourse proper begins. Jesus enumerates, in an apocalyptic style, the events that can be seen as signs. It is important to remember that Jesus was living and speaking in the year 33, but that the readers of Luke were living and listening to the words of Jesus about the year 85. Many things had happened between the years 33 and 85, for instance: the destruction of Jerusalem (year 70), persecutions and wars were everywhere, along with natural disasters. Jesus’ discourse announces these events as taking place in the future. But the community sees these things in the past, as having already taken place:
First sign: the false messiahs who will say, “It is I! The time is at hand!” (Lk 21:8);
Second sign: war and rumors of war (Lk 21:9);
Third sign: nation will rise against nation (Lk 21:10)
Fourth sign: earthquakes, hunger and pestilence everywhere (Lk 21:11);
Fifth sign: persecution of those who proclaim the word of God (Lk 21:12-19);
Sixth sign: the siege and destruction of Jerusalem (Lk 21:20-24).
When they heard Jesus’ proclamation, the Christian communities of the year 85 might have come to this conclusion: “All these things have come to pass or are in the process of happening! All this is happening according to a plan foreseen by Jesus! Therefore, history is not slipping from God’s hands!” Especially regarding the 5thand 6th signs they could say, “This is what we are experiencing today! We have already reached the 6th sign!” Then comes the question: How many signs are there left before the end comes?
In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus says about all the seemingly very negative things, “These are just the beginning of birth pangs!” (Mk 13:8) Although birth pangs are very painful for a mother, they are not signs of death but of life! They are no reason for fear, but for joy and hope! This way of reading the events brings calm to all. As we shall see, Luke expresses this same idea but in different words (Lk 21:28).
After this first part of the discourse (Lk 21:8-24) comes the Gospel text of the Mass of the first Sunday of Advent.
II. A commentary on the text
Luke 21:25-26: Signs in sun and
moon and stars.
These two verses describe three cosmic phenomena: (1) “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars”; (2) “The roaring of the sea and waves”; (3) “The powers of the heavens will be shaken”. In the eighties, when Luke was writing, these three phenomena had not taken place. The communities could say, “This is the seventh and last sign still to come before the end!” At first sight, this seventh sign seems more terrible than the preceding ones, especially since Luke says that men will be fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. In truth, in spite of their negative appearance, these cosmic images suggest something very positive, namely, the beginning of a new creation that will take the place of the old creation (Rev 21:1). It is the beginning of the new heaven and the new earth, proclaimed by Isaiah (Isa 65:17). They usher in the manifestation of the Son of God, the beginning of the new times.
These two verses describe three cosmic phenomena: (1) “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars”; (2) “The roaring of the sea and waves”; (3) “The powers of the heavens will be shaken”. In the eighties, when Luke was writing, these three phenomena had not taken place. The communities could say, “This is the seventh and last sign still to come before the end!” At first sight, this seventh sign seems more terrible than the preceding ones, especially since Luke says that men will be fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. In truth, in spite of their negative appearance, these cosmic images suggest something very positive, namely, the beginning of a new creation that will take the place of the old creation (Rev 21:1). It is the beginning of the new heaven and the new earth, proclaimed by Isaiah (Isa 65:17). They usher in the manifestation of the Son of God, the beginning of the new times.
Luke 21:27: The coming of the
Kingdom of God and the manifestation of the Son of Man.
This image comes from Daniel’s prophecy (Dan 7:1-14). Daniel says that after the disasters caused by the four kingdoms of this earth (Dan 7:1-8), the Kingdom of God will come (Dan 7:9-14). The four kingdoms all have animal features: lion, bear, panther and wild beast (Dan 7:3-7). These are animal–like kingdoms. They take the life out of life (even to this day!). The Kingdom of God is represented by the figure of the Son of Man, that is, it has human features (Dan 7:13). It is a human kingdom. The task of the Christian communities is to build this kingdom that humanizes. This is the new history, the new creation, in whose realization we must collaborate.
This image comes from Daniel’s prophecy (Dan 7:1-14). Daniel says that after the disasters caused by the four kingdoms of this earth (Dan 7:1-8), the Kingdom of God will come (Dan 7:9-14). The four kingdoms all have animal features: lion, bear, panther and wild beast (Dan 7:3-7). These are animal–like kingdoms. They take the life out of life (even to this day!). The Kingdom of God is represented by the figure of the Son of Man, that is, it has human features (Dan 7:13). It is a human kingdom. The task of the Christian communities is to build this kingdom that humanizes. This is the new history, the new creation, in whose realization we must collaborate.
Luke 21:28: A hope that grows in
the heart.
In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus says, “This is just the beginning of the birth pangs!” (Mk 13:8) Here, in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus says, “When these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near!” This affirmation shows that the aim of the discourse is not to cause fear but to raise hope and joy in a people suffering from persecution. Jesus’ words helped (and still help) the communities to read events from the point of view of hope. It is those who oppress and exploit the people who must fear. They, indeed, must know that their empire is finished.
In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus says, “This is just the beginning of the birth pangs!” (Mk 13:8) Here, in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus says, “When these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near!” This affirmation shows that the aim of the discourse is not to cause fear but to raise hope and joy in a people suffering from persecution. Jesus’ words helped (and still help) the communities to read events from the point of view of hope. It is those who oppress and exploit the people who must fear. They, indeed, must know that their empire is finished.
Luke 21:29-33: The lesson of the
parable of the fig tree.
When Jesus invites us to look at the fig tree, He is asking us to analyze the events taking place. It is as though He was saying, “Learn to read the signs of the times from the fig tree and so you may discover when and where God comes into your history!” Then He ends the lesson of the parable with these words: “Heaven and earth will pass away; but My words will not pass away!” By this very well known phrase, Jesus renews hope and once more alludes to the new creation, which was already taking place.
When Jesus invites us to look at the fig tree, He is asking us to analyze the events taking place. It is as though He was saying, “Learn to read the signs of the times from the fig tree and so you may discover when and where God comes into your history!” Then He ends the lesson of the parable with these words: “Heaven and earth will pass away; but My words will not pass away!” By this very well known phrase, Jesus renews hope and once more alludes to the new creation, which was already taking place.
Luke 21:34-36: An exhortation to
watchfulness.
God is always coming! His coming takes place when least expected. It may happen that He comes and that people are not aware of the hour of His coming (cf. Mt 24:37-39). Jesus advises people to be constantly watching: (1) avoid all things that may disturb or burden the heart (dissipations, drunkenness, and worries of life); (2) pray always, asking for strength to go on and wait standing for the coming of the Son of Man. In other words, the discourse asks for a double attitude: on the one hand, the watchfulness of one who is always aware, and on the other, the serene calmness of one who is at peace. These attitudes are signs of great maturity, because they bring together an awareness of the seriousness of the task and an awareness of the relativity of all things.
God is always coming! His coming takes place when least expected. It may happen that He comes and that people are not aware of the hour of His coming (cf. Mt 24:37-39). Jesus advises people to be constantly watching: (1) avoid all things that may disturb or burden the heart (dissipations, drunkenness, and worries of life); (2) pray always, asking for strength to go on and wait standing for the coming of the Son of Man. In other words, the discourse asks for a double attitude: on the one hand, the watchfulness of one who is always aware, and on the other, the serene calmness of one who is at peace. These attitudes are signs of great maturity, because they bring together an awareness of the seriousness of the task and an awareness of the relativity of all things.
III. Further information for a better
understanding of the text
a) When the end of the world will come
When we say “The end of the world”, what world are we talking about? Is it the end of the world of which the Bible speaks or the end of this world, where the power of evil that drives away and oppresses life reigns? This world of injustice will come to an end. No one knows what the new world will look like, because no one can imagine what God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Cor 2:9). The new world of life without death (Rev 21:4) surpasses all things just as the tree surpasses its seed (1 Cor 15:35-38). The early Christians were anxious and wanted to know the when of this end (2 Thess 2:2; Acts 1:11). But “it is not for you to know the times and the hour that the Father has set with His authority” (Acts 1:7). The only way to contribute to the end is to witness to the Gospel in every moment and action even to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).
When we say “The end of the world”, what world are we talking about? Is it the end of the world of which the Bible speaks or the end of this world, where the power of evil that drives away and oppresses life reigns? This world of injustice will come to an end. No one knows what the new world will look like, because no one can imagine what God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Cor 2:9). The new world of life without death (Rev 21:4) surpasses all things just as the tree surpasses its seed (1 Cor 15:35-38). The early Christians were anxious and wanted to know the when of this end (2 Thess 2:2; Acts 1:11). But “it is not for you to know the times and the hour that the Father has set with His authority” (Acts 1:7). The only way to contribute to the end is to witness to the Gospel in every moment and action even to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).
b) Our time! God’s time!
“For no one knows the day or the hour: not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk 13:32; Mt 24:36). God sets the time for the end. God’s time cannot be measured by the clock or calendar. For God, one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day (Ps 90:4; 2 Pet 3:8). God’s time runs independently of us. We cannot interfere with that, but we must be prepared for the moment when the hour of God comes into our time. Our security does not lie in knowing the hour of the end of the world, but in the Word of Jesus present in our lives. The world will pass away, but His word will not pass away (Isa 40:7-8).
“For no one knows the day or the hour: not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk 13:32; Mt 24:36). God sets the time for the end. God’s time cannot be measured by the clock or calendar. For God, one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a day (Ps 90:4; 2 Pet 3:8). God’s time runs independently of us. We cannot interfere with that, but we must be prepared for the moment when the hour of God comes into our time. Our security does not lie in knowing the hour of the end of the world, but in the Word of Jesus present in our lives. The world will pass away, but His word will not pass away (Isa 40:7-8).
c) The context of our text in Luke’s
Gospel
For us 21st century people, apocalyptic language seems strange, difficult and confused. But for the people of those times it was the common way of speaking and all understood. It expressed the strong certitude of the faith of the little ones. In spite of all and against all appearances, they continued to believe that God is the Lord of history. The main purpose of apocalyptic language is to foster the faith and hope of the poor. In Luke’s time, many of the people of the communities thought that the end of the world was close at hand and that Jesus would have come back. That is why there were those who stopped working: “Why work, if Jesus was returning?” (cf 2 Thess 3:11). Others stared at heaven, waiting for the return of Jesus on the clouds (cf Acts 1:11). Jesus’ discourse shows that no one knows the hour of the final coming. Today we have the same thing! Some await the coming of Jesus so much that they do not see His presence among us in our daily concerns and events.
For us 21st century people, apocalyptic language seems strange, difficult and confused. But for the people of those times it was the common way of speaking and all understood. It expressed the strong certitude of the faith of the little ones. In spite of all and against all appearances, they continued to believe that God is the Lord of history. The main purpose of apocalyptic language is to foster the faith and hope of the poor. In Luke’s time, many of the people of the communities thought that the end of the world was close at hand and that Jesus would have come back. That is why there were those who stopped working: “Why work, if Jesus was returning?” (cf 2 Thess 3:11). Others stared at heaven, waiting for the return of Jesus on the clouds (cf Acts 1:11). Jesus’ discourse shows that no one knows the hour of the final coming. Today we have the same thing! Some await the coming of Jesus so much that they do not see His presence among us in our daily concerns and events.
6. PSALM 46 (45)
(PARAPHRASED)
God is our strength
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in time of trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
a very present help in time of trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
There is a river whose streams make glad
the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her,
she shall not be moved;
God will help her.
The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
He utters His voice, the earth melts.
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her,
she shall not be moved;
God will help her.
The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
He utters His voice, the earth melts.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how He has wrought desolation on the earth.
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how He has wrought desolation on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the
earth;
He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear,
He burns the chariots with fire!
"Be still, and know that I am God.
I am exalted among the nations;
I am exalted in the earth!"
He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear,
He burns the chariots with fire!
"Be still, and know that I am God.
I am exalted among the nations;
I am exalted in the earth!"
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
7. FINAL PRAYER
Lord Jesus, we thank You for the word
that has enabled us to understand better the will of the Father. May Your
Spirit enlighten our actions and grant us the strength to practice that which
Your Word has revealed to us. May we, like Mary, Your mother, not only listen
to but also practice the Word. You who live and reign with the Father in the
unity of the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.
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