By Tarsish Marak csc.
Readings: Is 61:1-2a, 10-11; 1Thes 5:16-24; Jn 1:6-8,19-28
The readings for today express a deep hope, joy, and preparation for the coming of Christ. Isaiah prophesies the transformation that the Spirit of the Lord will bring: liberty, healing, and beauty for ashes. He also describes the intimate relationship between God and his people, using the metaphor of a bride adorned with jewels. Paul urges us to rejoice, pray, and give thanks in all circumstances, trusting that the God of peace will sanctify us entirely. John, the Baptist testifies to the Light, humbly acknowledging that he is not the Messiah, but the one who prepares his way.
As we enter the Advent season, we are invited to prepare our hearts for the Lord. This preparation is not only external, but internal, involving a genuine change of mind and heart. We need to allow the Spirit to work in us, producing the fruits of love, joy, peace, and patience. We also need to anchor ourselves in the practices of rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks, which will help us to stay focused on the Lord.
These practices will also enable us to experience the joy that transcends circumstances, the communion that comes from unceasing prayer, and the gratitude that overcomes situations.
May this Advent be a time of profound spiritual preparation, a time when we, like John the Baptist, joyfully proclaim, “Prepare the way of the Lord!” May our lives reflect the message of Isaiah, clothed in the garments of praise, as we eagerly await the arrival of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.