Journey to Holiness: Reflections on Comfort, Preparation, and the Presence of God

2nd Sunday of Advent: December 10, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 40:1–5, 9–11; Psalm 85:9–14; 2 Peter 3:8–14; Mark 1:1–8 

St John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness
 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/wdW00WwAs6g

We are living in a very tumultuous, chaotic, and uncertain times. There are enough and more ills and wickedness surrounding us. Despite the horrific situations in which we live today with two wars going on in the most civilized parts of the world with high literacy rates and business and intellectual acumen, still we are digging our own graves. Each side of the war knows the pitfalls of it and all that suffering brings to this shortsighted humanity. Yet things seem to be getting complicated more and more. It is almost like we are living in a barbaric world. In fact, the liturgical readings for this Second Sunday of Advent are almost specifically addressed to the reality of our world today.

1. Comfort in the Midst of Trials

Let's begin with Prophet Isaiah 40:1–5, 9–11. This beautiful passage speaks of comfort, preparation, and the coming of the Lord. "Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God.”  God brings comfort to His people during challenging times.  His presence and promises provide solace and hope in the midst of difficulties. God's comfort is an anchor that sustains us in the storms of life. The passage also calls to "prepare the way for the Lord." We need God's presence. We need to take out obstacles; there is room for a more intentional focus on God in our daily routine.

Prophet Isaiah uses vivid imagery to describe the leveling of the terrain before the Lord. This symbolic meaning of valleys being lifted and mountains made low reflects the pride or obstacles in our life that may need to be humbled before the presence of God. The glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. God's grace transforms because His sovereignty is over everything. If it was not so we would have fixed all the problems or ills of this world. 

2. Preparing the way, a call to action

Mark 1:1–8 is the beginning of the Gospel of Mark, where we encounter the proclamation of John the Baptist preparing the way for the arrival of Jesus Christ. In the spiritual journey, there are often wilderness experiences—moments of solitude, challenges, grief, anxiety, and introspection. John the Baptist's voice echoes in the wilderness, reminding us that even in seemingly desolate times, God is present and preparing us for something greater. It's in the quiet moments of our lives that we may hear the whispers of God's guidance.

John's mission was to prepare the way for the Messiah. John's baptism was a symbol of repentance, a turning away from sin, and a commitment to a changed life. As we reflect on our own lives, consider areas where repentance is needed. The call to baptism is an invitation to undergo a spiritual cleansing, allowing God to renew and transform us. John the Baptist was a humble servant, declaring that he was unworthy to untie the sandals of the coming Messiah. This humility is a powerful example for us. It's a weapon to serve others selflessly, a virtue of Christian practice. 

3. God shepherds us with His compassion

The image of God as a gentle shepherd who gathers His lambs and carries them in His arms is one of great comfort. The tenderness of God's care is always present. Prophet Isaiah describes God as both mighty and tender. John's proclamation in the wilderness wasn't for his benefit alone; it was a call to the people to prepare themselves for the coming of Christ. Because mighty God is becoming human. That is why John's message was urgent. Even St Peter speaks about God's patience and calls us to a holy living. The immensity of God is so great that with God a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like a day. We are called to embrace God's eternal perspective, recognizing that His timing is perfect, and His plans unfold according to His divine schedule.

God's patience allows us to live and not to perish. He calls us to repentance. There are areas of our lives where we need God's patience and grace. Knowing that the heavens will be destroyed and the elements will melt with fervent heat, St Peter urges believers to live holy and godly lives. As believers, we are called to look forward to the new heavens and the new earth where righteousness dwells and God's peace prevails.

Questions for self-reflection:

1. What obstacles or distractions might be hindering my connection with God or my spiritual growth? 
2. How do I experience God's comfort during challenging times in my life?
3. In what ways can I share the joy of God's salvation with those around me?
4. Where in my life do I need the gentle guidance of God, my Shepherd?

Prayer based on Psalm 85

Gracious and Merciful God,

In the stillness of our hearts, we come before You with gratitude and humility. Lord, may Your glory dwell in our land. Let righteousness spring up before us, and may Your presence guide our steps. We seek the path of peace, knowing that it is paved by Your love and mercy. Grant us the wisdom to walk in Your ways and to live with hearts surrendered to Your will.

As we wait upon You, let hope be our anchor, and let Your peace reign in our hearts. Open our ears to hear Your voice, that we may follow the path You set before us with faith and obedience. O Shepherd of our souls, lead us beside still waters and restore our spirits. May our lives be a reflection of Your goodness and grace. Grant us the strength to persevere, the courage to stand firm, and the grace to extend Your love to those around us.  In the name of Jesus, our Redeemer and Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

December 08, 2023