Church of the
Annunciation

7580 Clinton Street
Elma, New York 14059

716.683.5254

December 10, 2017

Second Sunday of Advent

Girls and Boys in Pre K 3 & 4 were so excited on Thursday morning with snow falling and Christmas coming. It can be a magical time and hectic too. Buffalo News “Gusto” suggests we should be “making a list and checking it twice” to decide on special things to do! Like: hot chocolate in front of a great fireplace; see old fashioned windows on Central Ave in the Village of Lancaster; go caroling with friends; ice skating at Canalside; holiday Pops or a play; try a Perry’s Christmas Ice Cream flavor; etc. During the season of Advent we can also make a simple list of spiritual things to do to prepare for Christmas.

Isaiah is preparing the way of the Lord with an announcement of glad tidings. He is herald of good news: speaking tenderly to the Jewish people in exile that God, like a Good Shepherd, will be leading them back home to Jerusalem. We too can radiate joy knowing God is with us in the daily struggles and celebrations of life.

The author of the 2nd Letter of St. Peter encourages readers to hold to the coming Day of God. The Lord does not delay his promises. The "apparent" delay in the return of Jesus in glory is an opportunity for holiness and devotion. God is patient with us in order to give us a chance to repent. Advent can be a time of honesty as we acknowledge regrets, admit our hurts and confess our sins.

St. Mark begins the gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God by quoting Isaiah: “Prepare the way of the Lord.” John the Baptist is a preeminent herald proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John points to One mightier than him who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and be a font of God’s mercy and salvation.

Advent can be an occasion for us of comfort knowing God is with us along the way. Advent can be a season of patience with others and humility as we confess our sins. Advent can be a precious sacrament of peace. Come to our Advent Penance Services at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM on Monday December 18 to experience reconciliation before Christmas. “Light Is On” in the church for confessions on Wednesday December 20 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Doing simple spiritual things during Advent can deepen our enjoyment when commemorate the birth of Christ.  

Previous:
First Sunday of Advent

Next:
Third Sunday of Advent

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