December 3rd

December 3, 2022
Saturday of the 1 st Week of Advent
Readings: Is 30:19-21, 23-26/Mt 9:35—10:1, 5a, 6-8
Elle Novicio: Junior
In the first reading, we learn how the people of Zion were given consolation
from the Lord. We too can learn from this reading that we should never fear the
hardships we endure, for God is always there by our side. In the reading, the
prophet says that “He [God] will be gracious to you when you cry out, as soon as
he hears he will answer you”. This shows how when we are in times of trouble and
in need, that God will also hear and answer our calls to Him. Although it may not
seem like He is always here with us through our struggles, no matter what, He is
there. God gives us everything in our life for a reason and it is all part of His plan.
Although God hears and heal us, it does not mean all our struggles will go away
but we must not fear, for the Lord is constantly with us and protecting us.
On the other hand, the Gospel shows how the promises given in the first
reading were fulfilled by Jesus Christ. In the first reading it notes that “on the day
the LORD binds up the wounds of his people, he will heal the bruises left by his
blows.” This shows how the Lord will always somehow fix our problems. In the
Gospel, it says that “Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in
their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every
disease and illness.” This further shows how God always stays true to His word
and will always fix everything like he said he would.
The Gospel also says that Jesus felt pity for those he saw in the crowd
because “they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.” This
shows how when at times when we lose sight of God, He will always feel pity for
us and will be there for us when we come back to him. Jesus is always willing to
accept us back into His kingdom.
The Gospel also talks about how Jesus asks his disciples to “Go to the lost
sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of
heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and drive out
demons.” During this Advent, it is important that we recognize that the Kingdom
of God is present in the person of Jesus Christ. Our hope should be that when Jesus
comes into our hearts, he will help us come out of our difficulties and do God’s
will. 
In conclusion, God is always going to be there for us, and He will always
keep His word. Jesus will also be there for us when we get lost. We must be
willing to open our hearts to accept Jesus this Advent and help others to feel the
presence of God in their lives especially during this Christmas.