On this first Sunday of Advent, we note that the word adventus is Latin for coming.
And, while we joyfully prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ at His nativity, we also need to prepare ourselves for His second coming at the end of the world. Today’s Gospel quotes our Lord telling His disciples to stay ready and avoid laxness. “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” (Luke 21:35-36). Certainly none of us want to hear Jesus warning that people will be terrified by all signs that will shake the world. But He simply wants us to understand that if we follow Him in faith, hope and love we will have nothing to fear.
Our Lord was born among us to save us, not to condemn us. Yet it is still up to us to make our own choices in life. We must embrace God’s bountiful mercy by asking forgiveness for our sins and serving Him by looking after our neighbors, especially those in greatest need. We have responsibilities to fulfill as children of God and, if we do, we will be able to welcome His Second Coming as gratefully and gladly as His First. Let us use these days of Advent open ourselves to the Holy Infant, who we will come to know as our Lord and Savior.