Mass Readings
Reading 1 – Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11
Psalm – Ps 84:9-14
Reading 2 – Second letter of St Peter 3:8-14
Gospel – Mark 1:1-8
Gospel Reflection
Fr Martin Ashe, Parish Priest
Now that Christmas is on the horizon, in this year of the pandemic, there is a greater sense of looking forward to celebrating this special feast. There is more activity in our lives as we continue to connect with more people and prepare for Christmas day itself. At the same time our Advent season guides us to recognise the deeper meaning and significance to our Christmas celebration. It is to be aware of the needs and hopes of the human heart. This is especially so when we can sense incompleteness and dissatisfaction within us. At a deeper level of the human heart, we can be lost. We can be so immersed in the Christmas rush that we find ourselves skipping over those deeper longings that also need to be listened to with a receptive heart.
Our scripture readings speak to the depths of our human need. A voice is heard, full of consolation and hope filled. It is the voice that speaks of the Lord’s coming to be close to us with his mercy and kindness. The One who is proclaimed comes to rescue us and renew our lives. John the Baptist proclaims and gives witness to the Lord’s coming.
In the busyness of this time, it is to have the courage to take this opportunity to be still and hear the voice of John saying “Prepare a way for the Lord!” It is to recognise the true gift that is being offered to us. The Lord gently seeks to speak to the deeper needs of the human heart, inviting us to acknowledge as the only One who can truly offer us his healing and mercy. It is indeed to welcome and prepare for this feast of Christmas, knowing that it is about experiencing the joy of God’s consoling love.