Reflection for the Second Sunday of Advent

by Rod & Connie Determan, Notre Dame Associates

In Gospel: Luke 3:1-6 John the Baptist has come out of the desert and is baptizing people in the wilderness along the Jordan River. His message, “Prepare a way for the Lord, make his path straight,” is for all people to ready themselves for the coming of the Lord. A message for all of us as we prepare for the Birthday of Jesus.

What a time of great anticipation. So much of my time is spent in anticipation. Events of my life such as vacations, holidays, birthdays, weddings (like our daughter’s), people coming to visit, visits I am planning to see others are all times of great anticipation and planning for me. The planning and preparation for these events pushes itself to the forefront of my thinking and often pushes aside my typical daily tasks. My thoughts are of how I can make the event better and to be sure that I have not forgotten anything important. The anticipation grows as the event gets closer and I find that the preparation often is more memorable and enjoyable than the event I am anticipating. Anticipation is a journey that should be enjoyed and shared with others who are with us on the same journey.

John the Baptist reminds us to prepare for the coming of the Lord and to anticipate his arrival. This Advent season may be a good time to anticipate the Birthday of Jesus and to share it with others. May we all have a life of great anticipations in the hope of the greatest event at the end.