* First Sunday of Advent (C), November 29, 2009
* Theme: “Hope in the Midst of Tribulation”

* Don’t you find it strange that at the beginning of Advent we hear about the chaos described in today’s gospel (from chapter 21 in Luke).
* Yet, it does parallel the disruptions we feel today as we reflect on the world around us, especially given these economic times.

* Advent has a threefold focus in our liturgical year:
* Past – We anticipate the celebration of the birth of Jesus among us 2000 years ago.
* Present – We prepare to receive Jesus anew in our lives today
* Future – We look to the end time, for the coming of Jesus again.
* (Cf. John McLauglin, “Living with Christ”)
* The First Sunday in Advent emphases the future coming of Jesus at the end of time

* However, as ominous as today’s gospel sounds, in reality it is quite consoling.
* A quick glance at the first reading from the Prophet Jeremiah tells us why.
* Jeremiah was writing while under arrest (33:1) and while the Babylonians were attacking Jerusalem.
* The city and nation were about to be destroyed.
* So, Jeremiah does what prophets often did when the people were under duress—he presents God’s promise of restoration.
* He says, “In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure….”
* What humans cannot do, God can.

* Today’s Gospel passage, so filled with distressing signs and warnings, ends with a strong, typically Lucan reminder:
* “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength.”
* Having faith does not protect the followers of Jesus from trials and tribulations.
* However, we can take heart that in Christ’s name God will strengthen us to bear whatever comes our way.

* As we look at our lives,
* On a personal basis, most of us have suffered a great loss:
* The death of a loved one,
* The loss of a job;
* A disabling accident or illness;
* A child’s life ruined by drugs, etc
* In the midst of our crisis, any of us would say that today’s exaggerated biblical imagery is right on target.
* That’s the way it feels- –the powers of the once-secure heavens are shaken.
* Life’s foundations have been cracked.

* What is left for us in these situations?
* Nothing we usually count on.
* Except the assurance of Jesus that on “that day” he will come to help us.
* “Stand erect and raise your heads,” because, as impossible as it seems, he offers us new life.

* We are not dreamers with our heads in the clouds.
* We as believers are waiting for the new beginning rather than fearing a terrible ending.
* We are realists who must persevere in our mission of service to the world while not getting overwhelmed by the size of our task.
* The gospel today may have its scary aspects, but the focus is not on the cataclysmic.
* God is the center of this narrative.
* We have looked at the reassuring face of Christ and know that God is in control and will never let go of us.
* (cf. Jude Siciliano, O. P.)

* On this Thanksgiving weekend.
* We are Grateful!!

* Amen

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