Sunday December 7, 2014

Second Sunday of Advent

Lectionary: 5

Reading 1
Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11

 

This week’s first reading from the Prophet Isaiah takes place in an high point for the Hebrews. At this time, this was a whole generation that had never lived in Jerusalem, and they were on a return journey to Jerusalem. This wasn’t an easy transition, and the Lord sends the promise of protection and comfort in a time of change. This reading is full of beautiful imagery that inspires hope despite any challenge that lies before His people. Even if the road looks difficult, the good news is that the Lord will provide.

 

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 85:9-10, 11-12, 13-14

R/ (8) Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.

 

Reading 2
2 Peter 3:8-14

 

This Week’s second reading from the second letter of St Peter is a good reminder that the Lord exists outside of our confides of how we understand time. When Jesus ascended into heaven, we were promised that He will return, and we can be confident that the Lord keeps His promises. Even if it seems like the Lord is taking forever to return, our Lord works in His time, and we can be sure that the Lord is on His way. If this is true, we must always be ready and our entire lives must point to Him because when He finally returns it will certainly be a surprised. Most of us will likely not feel like it was too long of a wait.

 

Alleluia
Luke 3:4, 6

1. Alleluia, alleluia.

Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths: all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

 

Gospel
Mark 1:1-8

 

This week’s gospel from the beginning of St Mark focuses on the man that embodies the season of Advent – St John the Baptist. John the Baptist is the final prophet of God that comes with one focus, to get the world ready for Jesus. He would have certainly seemed a little eccentric with his unique camel’s hair clothing and eating locust and wild honey. Still, behind this unique look, his passionate embrace of the Lord was an inspiration to those around him. As we look to prepare our hearts for the Lord, we can trust in the example of John the Baptist to shake awake our hearts and make straight His paths.

 

A Gospel Meditation from Bishop Vásquez

Reflection question

Today’s Gospel tells the story of Jesus’ baptism. From pictures and stories what do you know about your own baptism? Find the date of your baptism and mark it on your calendar to celebrate in the coming year.