Brothers and sisters, are you enjoying the cool breeze that usually comes at night?
It is undeniable that the Christmas season is upon us, the day we as Christians are most excited about. Last Sunday, the new calendar of the Church began and we are now in the first week of Advent. Advent comes from the Latin word Adventus, which means “the coming.” For us Christians, Advent is the sign of the coming of Jesus our Hope. This fulfills God’s promise in Israel that we can see in the book of Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Truly, this year is filled with sorrowful and depressing events. Thousands have perished from Covid-19, the disease that crippled our economy. Many people either stopped working or lost their livelihood. In the past weeks, many people have lost their homes and loved-ones because of the series of typhoons. Many of us are suffering and in a grim state. Many hearts are grieving. In a moment, our lives have changed. It is unquestionable that this year is tortuous for us all.
But at a time when we are enveloped in darkness, we must have more hope and faith. In the first week of Advent, we must not lose patience in waiting for the promise of hope brought by Jesus for all of us. It will help in this season of Advent to pray for our lives, our relations with our loved-ones and others, and our connection with the environment. It is important to look back at the things we have done that please God and others, and even those unpleasant experiences, for these may teach us to be good and humble. And best of all, it is time for us to be thankful for all the blessings we have received.
Surely, most of us are excited about Christmas, but let us not set aside in our minds the poor in our society, the orphaned, those who are suffering, and the weak. These people—we may not be aware of at times—that we meet every day. In this season of Advent, let us also pray for our fellow citizens that they may find the light from darkness. By giving importance to life and the dignity of our fellow citizens, we can share a light for the people that lost hope, and pray for opportunities to come their way.
Because of our current situation, physical distancing is the norm. But our hearts must reach out to those in need of help and support. This will ensure that socializing still lives in us. Like what is written in Pope Francis’ encyclical Fratelli Tutti, St. Paul illustrates that goodness is a trait that gives hope, not cruelty. People who have this ability can help in making the lives of others better and easier, especially through participation in carrying the weight of their problems, needs, and worries. In spite of the unfavorable events, let us not allow this to become the reason to sever our relationship with God and with our fellowmen.
Brothers and sisters, regardless of the sad things that happened this year that we were not prepared for, we can surely prepare for the coming of Jesus in our hearts. While we are eager and waiting for the day of the birth of Jesus, let us purify our hearts in order to have space for Him. And above all, this is also a call for all of us to recognize His presence in those who are belittled, suffering, and grieving.
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