Scripture reflections for Nov. 29: 1st Sunday of Advent. 2009

Who but a prophet would speak of shoots and branches in a time of terror? And who but Israel would listen? Such are the readings that begin our Advent pilgrimage. Jeremiah spoke amid catastrophe, ruin and degradation, and found reason not to give up hope. The “names” in Luke’s gospel are like reading an FBI “most wanted list” in the Post Office! Each was a mass murderer with crimes against humanity under his belt, and Luke’s advice for living in such a time is “live with dignity; hold your head high.” Is our time so different? Is ANY time so different? This year, as always, we are called to prepare for the celebration of the anniversary of the Birth of Christ by living by His teaching. With our dignity, the readings tell us, there is NOTHING we can’t survive! May your Advent be rich.