Hold on to God’s Promise

December 8, 2024 Second Sunday of Advent
Daily Readings: Baruch 5:1-9; Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11; Luke 3:1-6

I’m sure that at least once in our lives, we have either broken a promise or had someone break their promise to us. Only the Lord keeps His promises. We hear this clearly in today’s readings—the fulfilment of God’s promise.

What should be our attitude towards this?

The first reading tells us to stand and look. This reiterates the theme of Advent—be ready, be watchful. But this is also true in our everyday lives. Our attitude should always be one of readiness to receive God’s blessings each day. Do we recognize these blessings, or are we too busy with our own busyness and concerns?

The second reading reminds us of something very important: discerning what is of real value. How easy it is to be distracted when we do not hold on to what is truly valuable. When this happens, we fall into the trap of sin. We are exhorted to be pure, blameless, and righteous.

In the Gospel, John the Baptist speaks strongly about making straight our paths and repentance. God keeps His promises, but are we ready to welcome Him? Do we truly welcome Him? We cannot welcome Christ with an impure heart.

Making straight the path is not easy on our own. With our human frailty, we can easily succumb to the challenges we face. We can lose faith, get rattled, and become lost. The second reading tells us, however, that the One who began a good work in us will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus. We are not alone in our journey. God is always with us if we let Him accompany us.

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Let us be ready and watchful, discerning what truly matters. As we prepare to welcome Christ, let us make straight our paths through repentance and faith, trusting that God will guide us every step of the way.