or at midnight, when the cock crows or before dawn. If he comes suddenly,
do not let him catch you asleep. And what I say to you, I say to all: Stay awake!”
LECTIO DIVINA:
Read: Our readings on the first Sunday of Advent invite us to confess our sins
and beg for Divine mercy. Israel in the first reading beat their breast in
contrition as from their situation of exile in Babylon they recognize that they
had been unfaithful to their covenant with God. Now they beg for his mercy.
The Psalmist expresses our plea that God’s anger may end that his mercy may once
again may be experienced. The Gospel reminds us that judgment day will be upon us
though we do not know when. The present time is a time to prepare for it.
The best preparation is to repent and beg for mercy.
Reflect: Advent is the beginning of a new liturgical year. The liturgy reminds us
of the “end time” when Jesus, who came the first time to reveal God’s mercy will
come a second time to judge us all. We better be prepared for that time.
Thus, we are always “advent people,” that is, people who await the return of our Lord and Master!
Pray: The liturgical color is purple. It reminds us of the need to confess our
sins and at the same time beg for Divine mercy. The time given us before judgment
day is time to be ready for the second coming of Christ. The prayer of Advent is
“Maranatha” (Come Lord Jesus!) We pray for the coming of Jesus.
Act: We pray “Maranatha” (Come Lord Jesus!) It is a prayer of joyful hope!
© Copyright Bible Diary 2020