FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT, DECEMBER 1, 2024, YEAR C

MASS READINGS:

GOSPEL Lk 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 everyonewho 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.”

REFLECTION:

Today marks the first day of Advent. How are you preparing for Christmas? Are you decking your home with boughs of flowers? Are you getting swept off your feet by courting Christmas sales?

This year, I will be a Christmas orphan again. With no family nearby, I am stuck with mobility issues. I wonder if I will be able to feed myself - that is my daily life anxiety. For many, the romance of Christmas is their favorite time of the year. For a Christmas orphan, it is an unspoken tribulation. How can I be vigilant with all the distractions? Pain can be very distracting. The best pain management strategy is to think of others. Who is the best person to think of? The one that truly understands your pain. Prepare the stable of your heart for Jesus to stay in when there is no room in Bethlehem. Via the Holy Eucharist, He will reside in you and keep you company throughout Christmas.