1ST SUNDAY OF ADVENT HOMILY – YEAR B 2024
LOOK OUT FOR THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION!!
BUT DON’T BE TOO FEARFUL: BE PREPARED TO FACE UP TO WHATEVER IS TO COME!
Lk 21.25-28, 34-36 Jer 33.14-16 1Thess 3.12-42
And now we begin Luke’s Year C, right at the end of Jesus’ public ministry, where there is a continuity from last week’s celebration of Christ the King, but with a similar apocalyptic tone of the end times coming, when all will be judged, and the righteous will have nothing to fear, while those on the dark side will face their fate, as a result of what they have or haven’t done, so look out!
It’s just not all that simple, as we all keep on trying to do our best as faithful followers of Jesus, not just hiding in a corner waiting for the end, but keen to continue on living life as well as we can, applying his values to our lives, and the lives of those around us, in our fragile and defectible world.
We are not meant to live in fear of what is to come, but to stand up and face the challenges with which life presents us, not knowing what tomorrow brings, acknowledging our own mortality, not in a grim and pessimistic way, but with an attitude of positivity, where we aim to do what we can to be Gospel people, bringing good news where we can.
For many in today’s world, apocalyptic experiences are a day to day reality, when we think of what’s going on in some places, to take Ukraine and Russia, Gaza and Israel, Yemen, Sudan, and other places, where conflict continues, and the ordinary people have no choice to live in peace and security, despite their hopes for the future for themselves and the welfare of their children. It’s quite understandable that hope sometimes seems lost in such situations.
At the same time, as people of the Gospel, as Pope Francis constantly reminds us, we are not to lose hope in our duty of trying to make this a better world, despite the things that are beyond our control, in natural and human situations.
One of our problems is what appears to be the increasing polarisation, with division and even hostility between those of different views, political, religious or otherwise. Wouldn’t it be preferable to accept the common ground of our shared humanity and finite resources should rather draw us together, into respectful dialogue, and mutual good will, understanding and acceptance of our varying perspectives on faith and life. As we approach our Christmas season of peace and good will, can’t we focus a little more on finding this common ground?
Today’s readings start with good old Jeremiah, the reluctant and miserable prophet, looking more optimistic as he gets older and looks back on his prophetic ministry as not all a failure, despite his experience of rejection, deaf ears to his message, and personal isolation along the way, with fears for his life and depression as part of his ordeal. His faith in the God he proclaims is firm, and he speaks of a future for God’s people of truth, or honesty, and integrity, as long as they reflect their faith in their lives, with fidelity to the covenant of love, established with God and his people, and their observance of the commandments laid down by Moses. Despite trials and tribulations along the way, there is always hope for a better future, difficult though that might appear to be, especially in times of trouble.
While the Gospel we hear from Luke more or less a repetition of what we heard last week in Mark’s account, just before betrayal by Judas, Luke then has Jesus returning to his public preaching ministry before the Last Supper and Passion, so life goes on, despite the overarching darkness descending.
Once again, here we are, not looking up at the clouds, out of touch with reality, waiting for Jesus to return in power and glory, but reminded of our responsibility to continue living his message, keeping our feet on the ground, and applying his love in what we say and do. It’s not all that difficult, if we try to look beyond ourselves and our own selfish interests, which can get the better of us at times.
Brendan Byrne SJ has a good perspective on today’s readings, with words of hope in tough times: “While the basic message is one of comfort and reassurance, the second part of the Gospel adopts a more admonitory (warning) tone… The time of waiting requires attentiveness and a sharp spiritual sense. Anything that dulls the spirit (debauchery and drunkenness) or causes it to be distracted (absorption in the cares of life) must be avoided.
This does not mean, however, that we can’t have a good time enjoying ourselves and seeking happiness in life, in the company of others, as encouraged by Jesus in his fundamental teaching, expressed in the Beatitudes. Fun and pleasure are there to be experienced and enjoyed, but all in moderation, always with consideration of the needs of others!
And my old mate Claude Mostowik MSC also has a few positive thoughts: “Despite the chaos, the early Jesus community saw an opportunity to make the world a just, more compassionate place. When the world feels like falling apart, hope lays with Jesus who brings a new story as the readings predict. Change can appear like a disaster but can reveal how God draws near to us. Advent upends any notion of a distant God… We can be numb to the beautiful around us and fail to pay attention to the sun and stars, to birds and flowers and trees, and people being human to each other. While there is innocent suffering, tragedy, lies and fake news, we are called to witness that these do not have the last say… Pope Francis continues to proclaim the old but refreshing language of journeying together as one people of mercy, of forgiveness and of encounter.”
Claude concludes his reflection with an apt little prayer, so, so do I: “Eternal God, during times of transition conflict and chaotic change, remind us that such times may be birth pangs, and that when you are the source of our strength, (a time) in which justice and peace will reign. Encourage us. Lift up our heads and spirits. Amen.
And so we enter Advent season as people of faith, perseverance and hope, remembering our Advent wreath candles as symbols of hope, peace, joy and love, summing up well the qualities we are called to reflect in our own lives, as, like John the Baptist, we prepare the way of the Lord, and continue to follow him.
john hannon 1st December 2024