Second Sunday of Advent - Year B

“Prepare ye the way of the Lord”. These are the words first spoken by the great prophet Isaiah in one of his Messianic prophecies about the Lord. Every time I read or hear these words I can’t help but remember the opening lines of the Broadway musical “Godspell”.

This week’s readings are a challenge to all of us. How are we preparing the way of the Lord in our own hearts? Will we do anything different this year, or will it be just another Advent season come and gone. We need to apply these words to our own life and prepare to encounter our Lord Jesus in a brand new way. Perhaps we can try to attend daily Mass once a week or more on our lunch break. Maybe we can volunteer and help others in our community even if it is just for a few hours.

I think the real challenge is an invitation to pray more and truly deepen our love relationship with God. There are many aids to help us. There are Advent scripture companions, there are Advent meditations and reflections for us to think on, there are Advent traditions such as candles and wreaths that can be lit every night as a family gathers together to share stories and closeness. Then there are the times when we just sit in adoration of our Lord in His Eucharistic presence and listen to His sweet voice in the stillness of our own hearts.

So this week I challenge you. Think about something new to do and then do it. This way you will truly be preparing a way for the Lord in your own hearts. Something to think about. May God richly bless you always!