And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. – Luke 21:27
Advent is here! While the days are getting shorter and darker each day, with the increasing darkness comes the promise of brighter days: “but for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays” (Malachi 4:2). Sun of Justice is one of the names of Jesus. In our first reading, Jeremiah prophesied that Christ will be called, “The Lord our justice” (Jeremiah 33: 14-16). Christ’s kingdom is one of justice, truth, love, and peace. We participate in Christ’s Kingdom—the Church—here on earth. We also know that Christ’s Kingdom has yet to come in all its splendor.
During Advent, we celebrate Christ’s coming in history, mystery, and majesty.
History
Jesus came in history to Mary and Joseph. He took on human flesh and became man to unite His nature with ours. St. Athanasius wrote, “…through this union of the immortal Son of God with our human nature, all men were clothed with incorruption in the promise of the resurrection” (On the Incarnation).
Mystery
Jesus comes to us in mystery each time we receive Him in the Eucharist. St. Augustine preached, “Recognize in the bread what hung on the cross, and in the cup what flowed from his side.”
Majesty
Our Gospel reading gives us a glimpse of Christ coming in majesty with power and glory at His second coming. When Christmas arrives, we will rejoice in the promise that the Sun of Justice will come again in majesty to dispel the darkness of injustice, sin, and death.
Tonight, when you light your first Advent candle, remember the light that Christ brings. He brought His radiant light to the world in history: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who lived in a land of gloom a light has shone” (Isaiah 9:1). He brings light to the world today through the Holy Spirit, especially through us, who are called to be His lights shining in the world (see Matthew 5:14). He will bring his glorious light of justice, truth, love, and peace when He comes again.
Readings for November 28, 2021: 1st Sunday in Advent
- Jer 33:14-16
- Psalm 25:4-14
- 1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2
- Luke 21:25-28, 34-36