“Rejoicing That They are Remembered by God”

This Sunday’s readings for the Second Sunday of Advent begin with the Prophet Baruch telling us: “Up, Jerusalem! ... see your children gathered from the east and the west at the word of the Holy One, rejoicing that they are remembered by God.” Then our Gospel from Luke quotes the famous words of the Prophet Isaiah that foretold John the Baptist’s ministry, saying, “A voice of one crying out in the desert: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord,  make straight his paths.’” Luke tells us this ministry of John involved “proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” In essence, John is letting the people know that God remembers them and is calling them back to Himself, just as Baruch foretold!

There is something in our human nature where we want to be remembered by people. Think of the times when someone remembered you or remembered your name, even when you may have barely interacted with them; it’s almost always a good feeling. In the midst of Advent, the Church, by choosing these readings, is reminding us that God remembers us! God loves the world and does not abandon us! God so loved the world that He sent His Son to live among us and to save us! 

However… Do we remember Him?

As we continue our Advent journey this week amidst the busyness and commercialism, may we take to heart the words of Baruch and the ministry of John the Baptist. God remembers us; may we, in turn, remember Him! Let us repent and turn back to him once more, seek forgiveness of our sins in the Sacrament of Reconciliation if need be, and wait with joyful anticipation for the coming of the Savior!

Want to prepare your heart and mind for Sunday's Mass? Click here to find the readings.