First Sunday of Advent ‘A’

This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent - a fresh start in our spiritual journey that prepares  us not just for Christmas, but for all the ways Jesus wants to enter our lives. Advent simply  means “coming.” It’s a season about welcoming Jesus: remembering His birth in Bethlehem,  being open to the ways He comes to us right now, through prayer, the Bible, the Sacraments,  and our community; and staying ready for the day he returns in glory. 

You will see signs of Advent all around: priests wear blue or purple, and the Advent wreath gets  a new candle lit each week. But the real change Advent calls for isn’t just in our churches - it’s in  our hearts. We are called to let Jesus be “born” in us again, so that His love, kindness, and  forgiveness can shine through us to others. 

The First Reading pictures a hopeful vision: a world where everyone is drawn to God, finding  purpose and unity. 

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this hope, inviting us to join the journey as joyful pilgrims,  moving forward together toward God’s peace. 

In his Letter to the Romans, St. Paul challenges us to take a hard look at our habits. He asks:  What do we need to let go of to make room for Christ? For some, that might mean letting go of  bad habits, negative thinking, selfishness, or old grudges. Advent is a chance to start fresh, to  grow into people who really live our faith. 

In the Gospel, Jesus urges us to stay awake and alert, not just for Christmas, but for the  moments He comes into our lives every day. Life is unpredictable, and it’s easy to get distracted  or caught up in our routines. Like the people in Noah’s time, we can miss what really matters if  we are not paying attention. 

So, how do we prepare? 

• Offer your daily life to God. Start the day with a simple prayer: “God, help me love as  You do today.” 

• Practice self-control. Make small choices every day to live with integrity and kindness. • If there’s tension with a family member or friend, take a step to mend things. Don’t let old  hurts get in the way of joy. 

• Ask God for forgiveness, and be willing to forgive others, even if they don’t ask for it. • Be open to God’s presence. Whether it’s five minutes with Scripture, a quiet moment at  church, or time helping someone in need, make space for God to move in your life. 

Each day is a fresh opportunity to let Jesus in. As we light the candles on the Advent wreath  and see the decorations going up, let as remember that the best way to get ready for Christmas is by becoming people who are awake, alert, and ready to bring Christ’s hope and love into the  world.