*REFLECTION FOR THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT YEAR A* 

Today, we begin the season of Advent. The word Advent comes from the Latin *Adventus* meaning "coming". In this new liturgical year, we wait in anticipation for the "coming" of the Lord Jesus at Christmas celebration and His "coming" at the end of time. The Church does not only wish to indicate the beginning of a period, but also the beginning of renewed commitment to the faith by all those who follow Christ, the Lord. 

   The first reading (Is. 2: 1-5) envisions a new world order of peace and joy that will be established when the Lord "comes". With authority in His hands, He will reign, administering justice among nations and ensuing for peace. 

   However, in the gospel (Matt. 24: 37-44), Jesus still warms of the consequences of the "Day" of His "coming" and calls for adequate preparation to await that day. Using the event of the "days of Noah", Jesus cautions that the coming of the "Son of Man" will be a "Day of Judgment" to separate the just from the unjust. 

   Dear friends, the fundamental choices we make can either lead us towards God and His will for us or they can lead us away from God and His will for us. The key word is vigilance since the "coming" will be like that of a thief, unannounced.

   I pray as we journey in life today, St. Paul's admonition will be our guide (Rm. 13: 11-14). "Let us give up all the things we prefer to do under the cover of the dark; let us arm ourselves and appear in the light". How are you planning to live your life this new season? Are you willing and prepared to be a beacon of light wherever darkness is found? Truth and Holiness of life are the light that dispel darkness. May the Lord show us His mercy and love, and grant us salvation. I wish you a Happy New Month and a light-full Sunday!

 *@Fr Francis Onwunali*