We actively wait during the days of Advent. We are called to be vigilant and to pray
unceasingly during this holy season. We
are called to prepare a place in our hearts for the coming of our Lord and
Savior into our world. Yet, perhaps we
don't consider this time of preparation in the context of what the prophet
Jeremiah is proclaiming in our first reading today. Jeremiah speaks of a new age to come, one in
which the ruler will do what is just and right in the land. The psalmist declares what this new age will
be about: “Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for
ever.”
In our busy holiday preparations, it is easy to forget about
those who live in our society in conditions of injustice and oppression. Sometimes, it is not easy for us or for the
afflicted to be comforted by the anticipation of a just and peaceful reign that
seems so far off in the future.
But it is very fitting for us during this holy season of
Advent to take the time to reflect upon the message of peace and justice that
we hear today, to perhaps think about ways in which we can incorporate God's
justice in the way we live out our journey of faith. It is easy for us to buy
presents for our loved ones and family members, to do acts of kindness for
them, but perhaps this Advent season and this Year of Mercy we are called to do
more, to reach out and do something kind for someone whom we don't get along
with or someone that really pushes our buttons.
That would be a true gift for both parties involved, a gift that perhaps
would have some unexpected results.
Our world can be a rough place sometimes. As we prepare for the birth of our Lord, what
are some little things we can do to promote peace and justice in our world,
which are not only important and essential to the proclamation of God's kingdom
that is here and now, but also for the fulfillment of that kingdom that is to
come.
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