Second Sunday of Advent

The Gospel reading for the Second Sunday of Advent, December 4, focuses on the ministry and preaching of John the Baptist, who has come to "Prepare the way of the Lord," calling people to turn back to God, and offering the promise of the One who will come and "baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." The second purple candle we light today during Mass symbolizes Peace, as we prepare to receive Jesus Christ, the "Prince of Peace," and it is traditionally called the "Bethlehem" candle, as we also remember Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem.

Daily Readings for Today
Isaiah 11:1–10; Ps 72:1–2, 7–8, 12–13, 17; Romans 15:4–9; Matthew 3:1–12

Commentary on the Daily Readings from Living Space

Reflect on the following excerpt from today's Gospel reading:

I [John the Baptist] am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."

God's Spirit already dwells within you and connects you with God. How do you prepare yourself to be consciously aware of this presence?

For more information and resources for Advent, please view the page "Advent and Christmas Resources 2022," under the "Links to Resources" section located on the top left-side column of this blog, providing links to a variety of websites, articles, videos, music, and other resources to help you better understand and prepare for Advent and Christmas.