We need to persist in our devotion to our Lord and Savior
Reflections on the readings for the Second Sunday of Advent (December 9, 2018): BAR 5:1-9; PS 126:1-2,2-3,4-5,6; PHIL 1:4-6,8-11; LK 3:1-6
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
In the beautiful prayer that we hear St. Paul offer for the community of Christians at Philippi, we plainly see his love for these people.
He is intensely aware of their fidelity to the Good News of Jesus Christ. He also lets them know that he believes that they will be able to persevere in walking the footsteps of our Redeemer. “I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ” (Philippines 1:8-10).
As true disciples of Jesus, we must examine our lives and not let ourselves grow complacent. The Advent season gives us a marvelous opportunity to consider things we can build on in our spiritual lives. It can also show us those things we should eliminate in order to grow closer to our Savior. In a few weeks we will rejoice in His birth in a stable even as we anticipate ultimate His sacrifice for us on a cross. Let us make ourselves ready.
Suggested missionary action: We can pray every day for an increase in faith, hope and love on the part of all our brothers and sisters, especially those who have turned their faces from Christ.
Celebrate Advent with the missions of the Church. Visit MISSIO.org.
