Gospel Reflection for December 1, 2024 – 1st Sunday of Advent

Sunday Readings: Jeremiah 33.14-16; 1 Thessalonians 3.12—4.2; Luke 21.25-28, 34-36

People will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with great power and glory.  When these things happen, stand straight and lift up your heads, for your redemption is near at hand (Luke 21.27-28).

The Son of Man coming on a cloud in power and glory is a commanding image from the prophet Daniel, an apocalyptic book that promises good will triumph over evil. The prophet Daniel sees “one like a human one coming with the clouds of heaven” to assume kingship—“all people, nations, and languages shall serve him” (Daniel 7.13- 14). Christians see Jesus in Daniel’s dream. Jesus insists his followers are not to worry. Rather than be afraid, Jesus recommends we stand up straight and raise our heads. Our salvation is near, our wholeness is here. In Jesus we find God incarnate among us and recognize the holy in him and in our human selves. Jesus gives us every reason to hope that the loving actions he teaches will get us through not only every day but any day.

Whether we see Jesus’ coming again as a threat or a fulfillment, the gospel challenges us to stay watchful and pray for strength. In living consciously, attentive to people and life within and around us, we find God already with us.

• What troubles does prayer keep in your face?
• What dulls your senses? What sharpens them?  What practices help you live consciously?