The First Sunday of Advent
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
This weekend starts the beginning of the Advent season, when we wait in anticipation not only to celebrate Christ’s birth but also for his return. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus instructs us to be prepared and ready for His return. We don’t know when it will happen, but we know it will happen when we least expect it. Jesus says he will come like a thief in the night, and we need to be diligent and stay awake. It can be easy to be distracted and overwhelmed with everything that is going on in our lives. This time of year can seem even worse if we let it. Everyone seems to be extra busy and in a rush to get where they are going.
Let’s take the time to slow down and remember what the Advent Season is all about. We have a God who loves us so much that he chose to become one of us so he could save us. Not only did he become human, but he was born as a baby, like we are. He experienced what it was like to grow up and live as one of us. He knows us better than anyone else ever could, and he wants to have a personal relationship with each of us. He even gave his life for us so we could live with him for eternity.
This is why we are preparing to celebrate Christ’s birth, and we have hope in his promise that he will return for us.
May we continue to prepare for Christ’s return as we allow him to do his will in our lives. Spreading the Gospel to all who will listen so they can be prepared for his return.
Your brother in Christ
Deacon Manny
