Today we celebrate the Second Sunday of Advent. From the first
reading from our Advent prophet to the beginning of St. Mark’s
Gospel, our focus is on the one crying out in the desert, “Make
straight the way of the Lord.” We are introduced to that voice;
John the Baptist, Jesus’ cousin, who is preparing the way for the
Messiah, calling the people to repentance so as to see the glory
of God. Both this Sunday and next John the Baptist figures
prominently. Next week from St. John’s Gospel we learn more of
the Baptist’s call to us this Advent. We are to allow this time of
preparation for Christmas to be a time to receive a renewed
outpouring of the Spirit; a spirit of hope and joy that the Messiah
brings. St. Peter’s admonition in the second reading invites us to
reflect on the type of people we ought to be during Advent,
“conducting yourselves in holiness and devotion, waiting for and
hastening the coming day of the Lord…at peace.”
God Bless! Happy Advent!
Please continue praying 3 Hail Marys.
Fr. Pete
