“HONEY FROM THE ROCK”
Saturday, 10th December 2016,
Second Week of Advent
Sir 48: 1-4, 9-11;
Ps 79: 2-3, 15-16, 18-19;
Mt 17: 10-13
EMBRACING REPENTANCE
The role of St. John the Baptist as the Elijah to come was missed by the scribes. They failed to see him fulfilling Elijah’s role of preparing the way for the Lord. Like John had a unique and definitive role in preparing for the coming of Christ, so also we all have a role in preparing for Jesus’ continual coming. Jesus came once many years ago, but He desires to continue coming into our lives. And He can only come if we properly prepare for Him.
John the Baptist’s main message was to repent of our sin. Though we all struggle with sin as a result of our fallen human nature, we should never forget that our calling is that of perfection, to be perfect as the Father in Heaven is perfect. We are called to recognize our sins, confess them, and strive to become detached from them.
Advent is one of the most important times of year to do this and it is especially important that we seek out the grace of the Sacrament of Reconciliation during this holy season. Let us reflect today upon how ready and willing we are to preach to our own soul about the importance of repenting of your sins. Embracing repentance in this holy season is the best way to prepare for the continuous coming of Christ in your life.
Prayer: Lord, help me to see my sin as we enter more deeply into this Advent season. Help me to be aware of the many things that keep me from You and to turn from them wholeheartedly. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.