1st Sunday of Advent (C)

(Edited) Sunday Reflections (from) Liturgical Years 2011 (A), 2012 (B), and 2013 (C)

1st Sunday of Advent (C), December 2, 2012
Liturgical readings
Jeremiah 33:14-16
Psalm 25
1 Thessalonians 3:12 - 4:2
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

"Pray constantly..."

All Catholics should see the immense value of constant prayer. For this contributes to a vigilant spirit which can help a soul aware of his mortal condition and a conscious need for God and His salvation. Jesus Himself tells His disciples to pray constantly, for the discipline can guard them against all indulgence, drunkenness and worldly cares. The Lord meant the counsel not only for His disciples, but to all the faithful in the Universal Church. It is by praying constantly with faith that all who believe in Christ will be given "the strength to escape whatever is in prospect". Constant prayer, vigilance and faith will make any soul ready to "stand secure before the Son of Man".

This counsel of constant prayer in the Bible is inculturated in the many Catholic spiritualities that grew along the continuum of history. This counsel, as many would probably say, is not incompatible with a busy work or life in today's modern context. Spiritual masters such as St. John Climacus, St. Elizabeth Seton, and St. Josemaria Escriva convince us today that it is a discipline possible if it is taken to heart (and to practice). Below are some quotes from them that can inspire all to take up the discipline of prayer, silence and reflection:

"the remembrance of Jesus...with each breath." (St. John Climacus)

"we must pray literally without ceasing - without ceasing - in every occurence and enjoyment of our lives." (St. Elizabeth Seton)

"those words that struck you when you were praying: engrave this in your memory..." (St. Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer)

From the time of Jesus, to St. John Climacus (7th century), to St. Elizabeth Seton (18th century), to St. Josemaria Escriva (20th century), and to our present Eucharistic celebrations, the spirit of constant prayer is kept alive. This is especially relevant at this time of Advent when all prepare for the Parousia (the Second Coming of the Lord). Nobody knows when the Second Coming of Jesus will happen. But it is wise to prepare. If one faithfully joins the constant prayers of the Church in the Eucharist, and do what is asked, there is no need to worry of "dying of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the earth". For even if the "powers in the heavens will be shaken", one can learn through a spiritual discipline to wait with joy for the salvation promised by the Lord.