We are in the third week of Advent. Yesterday evening was the first night of “Simbang Gabi,” with evening masses for nine consecutive days to prepare for the birth of the Lord. The first night was presided over by Bishop Daniel Mueggenborg, DD, together with other priests concelebrating.
I encourage everyone to attend this annual event to prepare ourselves spiritually. Today’s first reading from the book of Isaiah is to remind us to “keep the Sabbath free from profanation, and his hand from any evildoing.” It continues to exhort us to love the name of the Lord and become His servants. For Catholics, our main day of Sabbath is Sunday because He was victorious against evil and death on Easter Sunday. We have to connect with our actions of worship and sacrifices with our very core and spirituality. We need to be consistent in coming to mass on Sundays, the days fully dedicated to our family to relax in and act in our commitment to love God and not just fulfill our religious obligation.
Reflecting on the gospel today, written by evangelist John, Jesus is explaining that John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus’ coming. This prepares us for the new covenant being the “burning and shining lamp, and for awhile you were content to rejoice in his light.” To switch into the new covenant, repentance is absolutely necessary; that is the reason why he prompted many to receive the Baptism of Water for the forgiveness of sins.
Furthermore, Jesus is also teaching His listeners about who He is. He wants to assure His listeners that He is speaking the truth about Himself. Jesus is clear that His mission comes from the Father and that His works are proof of this.
What is our mission in life? Do we recognize the realities of human suffering and losing faith in God? We must act and share in preserving the integrity of God’s creation, inspiring others to return to God thru our own witnessing as stewards of God. Our life must create positive change to find in God unity as we journey together to eternal life, not straying from the way of truth. For St. Augustine, our “Christian faith is a way of life,” not merely on Sundays; however, it is a sacred manifestation of gratitude to the Lord, from whom everything comes to us, as His presence is indeed a blessing.
God bless you.
Fr. Arlon, osa
