Tuesday, November 25, 2008
What is Advent?
Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year. While it expresses the deep longing of all humanity for God, it celebrates the three-fold coming of the Lord:
remembering the events that surrounded the Lord’s coming long ago,
celebrating his coming among us today,
and looking forward to his final coming in glory.
The first part of Advent looks forward to the Lord’s glorious return at the end of time and reflects on his presence among us today.
The second part - from December 17th to 24th - prepares us for the yearly commemoration of Jesus’ coming among us in human flesh.
Each Advent Sunday takes on a particular character as suggested by the Gospel reading.
I The Lord’s coming in glory at the end of time
II and III John the Baptist and his message of repentance
IV Events that immediately preceeded the Lord’s birth
Come, Lord Jesus!