ADVENT DIGEST with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY IN THE FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT YEAR

Mystery of the day: Glorious

Table of the Word: Isaiah 25:6-10a; Matthew 15:29-37.

The WORD:

"And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth; for the LORD has spoken." (Isaiah 25:7-8)

Theme: He will wipe away tears from all faces.

Inspiration: The central theme for this first week of Advent is "hope" which reassures us of God's  unfathomable love and mercy. For the Scripture has said it all: "Those who hope in God cannot be disappointed." Building on this solemn promise, we put on the helmet of hope to get set for the coming of our Saviour.

In the same spirit of hope that Prophet Isaiah foretold of God's readiness to change the ugly story of humanity.  As he prophesied: 

"And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth; for the LORD has spoken." (Isaiah 25:7-8)

His promise to uncover every coverage, swallow death and wipe away tears from all faces put us on the "hopeful path" to be alert and keep watch over every situation; so that we may not be distracted by difficulties or challenging life situations.

Indeed, beautiful days are coming. A day which we will all gather to give out the best smile ever. A day where lion and goat will be exchanging pleasantries without fear, when we will be greeted with all kinds of fortunes. That day is fast approaching. Let us hurry up to meet Him, the eternal King of Peace, with intense preparation. As today's entrance antiphon reechoed this wonderful plan of God foe each and everyone of us: 

"The Lord will come and he will not delay. He will illumine what is hidden in darkness and reveal himself to all the nations." (see Hebrews 2:3; 1Cor. 4:5)

Finally, amidst our busy schedule, let's focus our minds on the great mantra of this season "Come, Lord Jesus." so that, we will behold Him as He really is when He comes.

Peace! Be with you!

Let us pray

Prepare our hearts, we pray, O Lord our God, by your divine power, so that at the coming of Christ your Son, we may be found worthy of the banquet of eternal life and merit to receive heavenly nourishment from his hands. Who lives and reigns with you forever and ever. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        06122023.