Daily Scripture, December 1, 2024
Scripture:
Jeremiah 33:14-16
1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
Reflection:
Today we celebrate the beginning of Advent. Christmas is only four weeks away, and holiday preparations are in full swing. During this busy time, we are asked to spiritually pause and enter a season of waiting. That is an interesting dilemma for us. The Jewish people waited centuries for the coming of the Messiah, while we struggle to wait a few weeks to celebrate the birth of Christ!
My favorite hymn for this season of preparation is “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel!” Each verse reflects one of the beautiful Old Testament prophecies of the coming of the Messiah. The first verse ties closely with today’s readings.
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
Jeremiah reminds the Israelites that God will not forget the promise to send a Messiah. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to grow even more in love for one another in preparation for the second coming of Jesus. Luke encourages us to be vigilant and pray for strength when we stand before the Son of Man.
And ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here
The Jewish people are suffering through their exile in Babylon, devastated that Yahweh has seemingly abandoned them. Jeremiah, in a more upbeat tone than we usually hear from him, offers hope to the Israelites—God’s promises will be fulfilled.
Until the Son of God appear!
We anticipate the appearance of the Son of God during this Advent season. Jeremiah speaks of the historical event of the Messiah. Paul and Luke encourage their listeners to be prepared for the end of time. There is a third coming, which is neither historical nor future. This is the importance of Advent for us today. We prepare for the spiritual coming of Christ into our daily lives.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you O Israel!
Mike Owens is the coordinator of the Passionist Alumni Association and a member of the Migration Commission of Holy Cross Province. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky.
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