This First Sunday of Advent, we begin what many writers have called another year of grace. Those familiar with the classics of the liturgical movement in the first part of the twentieth century, recall the five volume series by Pius Parsch, which is still of great value, entitled The Church’s Year of Grace.
This German scholar wrote: “What does Advent mean? Adventus Domini means the ‘coming of the Lord.’ . . . Advent accordingly is a time of preparation, a time of holy desire, longing and expectancy. If bodily food is to nourish us, we must feel hunger. Thus, too, we ought to hunger for God’s grace (volume I, p. 18).” Yes, the Christian Life is all about grace, which is God’s life directed toward our souls for our salvation. Grace is Jesus Christ, who wishes to dwell within us. Therefore, first and foremost our desire must be to live in the state of grace and persevere in that state all our days. We only have so much time. Advent is our reminder to make sure that our spiritual affairs are in order for when the Lord returns. Jesus warns us: “Be vigilant at all times.”
No where on earth can we draw closer to God’s redemptive work than in the Sacred Liturgy, especially the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Though we ought to participate in the sacred rites in every way permitted, the most important participation is deep in our souls, when we are united heart to heart with what our Lord does at the altar. Throughout this new Church year, we will be given another chance to be transformed little by little by the entire Paschal mystery. God is so good to us. His love endures forever and ever.
As we prepare for the celebration of Christmas, let us put aside the darkness of sin and put on Jesus Christ, who enlightens our souls with His love. Let it be said of us on Christmas Day, that we have been reborn in the Lord. That is my sincere and fervent prayer for all of us. May your prayerful celebration of the Advent season bear fruit now and in eternity! Let Mary accompany you along the way, as she did at the first Christmas! Also open your hearts to the just man, St. Joseph. Remember, a good Advent makes for a good Christmas!
Yours in our Lord and our Lady, Fr. Mark G. Mazza, Pastor