Advent: Catholic ReflectionsSample

John the Baptist draws to a close the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament and heralds the new way by announcing the coming of the kingdom and the coming of the Messiah. He calls us to repentance and preparation for the day of the Lord.

Our Bible readings remind us that our hope is in the Lord, through the baptism of Spirit and fire that he brings, through the words that he speaks and the unity he brings. St. Paul, writing to the Romans, encourages us "to give glory to God for his mercy." At Mass we too begin with a time of repentance, recognizing God's mercy, and then we proclaim together the glory of God.

Perhaps take some time today to praise God. You might want to use the words of the Gloria to help you:
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We praise you,
we bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world,
have mercy on us;
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father.
Amen.