The new Liturgical Church Year begins. We begin Year A, which emphasizes the gospel of St. Mathew. Advent is here! Advent is season of waiting. It rings like a bell in the early morning, rousing us to reality.
In the Gospel today, Jesus says: “Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come." (Mathew 24:42). It is noted that the Church draws our attention again to our final destiny. What began with Christ's birth in  Bethlehem will finally culminate in his Second Coming at the end of time.
Advent is the season for us to ponder anew the coming of the Lord in our world, and in our lives. Advent symbolizes the long centuries during which the People of Israel, the Chosen People of God, waited for the Messiah and Redeemer. They waited in hope for a light about to dawn, as in the early morning when we wait for the sun to rise. The faithful Israelites waited in prayer and hope. Their expectation was heightened, and their trust was not disappointed. God did not disappoint them, for He is always faithful in keeping His promises.
Their attitude can teach us much about patience, and waiting in hope for God to act in our lives. Each of us has a greater influence on each other than we want to admit. One person can change the tone and mood in the house, at a family gathering or at a coffee break at the office, for good.
  Each of us can be a person of hope in the darkness. We can choose to spread joy. Advent is a time to reflect on our lives. Let us choose to be the bearer of the good news of Jesus Christ by our attitudes. May this Advent awaken us to our true dignity in Christ and prepare us for his coming.
 
God Bless You during this Advent.
Reflection by Fr. Francis Nguyen