Daily Reflections

In this 2nd week of Advent, the focus is upon developing a more mature understanding of the Season and a deepening relationship with the Lord.

In the Gospel, Jesus asks: “To what shall I compare this generation?”
He answers his question with a parable. When children sit and play in the marketplace, they often show their disinterested and uncooperative reaction to the games. If a dirge is sung, they want to dance. If a joyful wedding flute is played they prefer to mourn. In other words, their self-centeredness makes them oblivious to the wishes of their playmates.

Jesus comments on a similar reaction of the present generation. When John the Baptist came “neither eating nor drinking” you accused him of being “possessed by a demon” so you didn’t have to acknowledge or follow him. When the “Son of Man came eating and drinking” you accused him of being “a glutton and a drunkard” and therefore a friend of sinners so you refused to follow him.

My question has to do with our participation in Advent. Is our attitude sometimes that of the uncooperative children always wanting something else? After all, the Messiah came two thousand years ago so what can Christmas add that’s new? Christ suffered, died and rose again for our salvation once for all. No need to do that again. If nothing is new, what do we have to prepare for? Undoubtedly, the waiting and preparation has something to do with us, not with Christ’s coming at Christmas. It’s easy to ignore the Holy One of Israel. “I, the Lord your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead you on the way you should go…”

Well, Jesus will come anew on Christmas Day whether we like it or not. His coming won’t make much difference to those unprepared for the event. On the other hand, by reflecting on the Advent Scripture we could gain new wisdom. Maybe the Spirit will lead us to a new appreciation of Christ’s unconditional love. The message may even motivate us to live a more Christ-like lifestyle. Should any of these initiatives occur we will understand the meaning of his words:“wisdom is vindicated by her works.”