Compared to the coming of Christ, it’s a non-issue | PadreCast First Sunday of Advent

He came the first time with humility, with silence, and with gentleness because He wanted to show His love and His mercy. He wanted to invite us to repentance and holiness of life. He does not force, in His first coming, His Kingship on anyone.

But in His second coming, He will dominate every soul, every being. There will be no longer gentleness, or mercy, or compassion. And so He warns us to be prepared. ...

In our relationship with Christ, in our need - not desire -but our need to be ready for when He comes, we don't always have the strength of will. Why?

It's not because we don't know how important it is. It's just because our hearts are fixed on other things. Other concerns. Other anxieties.

All you have to do is look at your life at anything that causes you anxieties, or fears, or concern. Or hope, on an earthly level at least. It could be relational. It could be social, political, economic, with your job. It doesn't matter what that earthly concern is. But it's that concern that is taking you away from being ready for Christ when He comes. ...

We have to call to mind daily that Jesus is coming soon. And that takes a concerted effort, it's not easy. But that's why our Lord has given us His Holy Church, that's why He gives us His Body and Blood in the Eucharist, that's why He gives us the sacrament of reconciliation, and all of the great devotions we have as Catholics. Devotions to the Sacred Heart, and the Divine Mercy, the Holy Rosary, all the novenas and prayers, the intercession of the saints and angels. All of these things are ultimately given to us to help us keep in mind the second coming of Christ.

I challenge you, especially during this Advent season, whenever you notice yourself becoming anxious or concerned about anything (normal, everyday issues, not sinful things), try to bring to mind the fact that Jesus could come at any moment. Then weigh your anxiety based on that thought.

Worried about a relationship in your life? If Jesus comes tomorrow, is it going to be a problem anymore? If you're worried about politics - if Jesus comes tomorrow, it's not going to be an issue! You see, it doesn't matter what your concern is. Compared to the coming of Christ, it's a non-issue.

 

Is 63:16b-17, 19b, 64:2-7; Ps 23:1-2, 2-3, 5-6; 1 Cor 1:3-9; Mk 13:33-37

 

You may watch the Mass in its entirety on our youtube channel. Homily begins at 18:27