01/12/2025
*1 December 2025*
*Monday of the First Week of Advent*
🌿 Advent Reflection – Monday of the First Week 🌿
As we enter the first days of Advent, the Church invites us to lift our eyes toward Christ’s Second Coming. These early weeks remind us not to fall into complacency because life seems comfortable, nor into despair because life becomes difficult. Instead, we are called to stand firm in faithful hope.
In the first reading, Isaiah speaks of a remnant of Israel — a people who survived devastation, exile, and deep sorrow. Their land had been plundered, their future shaken, yet they remained because God’s grace preserved them. And to this remnant, God promised restoration, protection, and glory. A cloud by day, a flaming fire by night — signs that God had not abandoned them.
Perhaps this remnant carried the same faith we see in today’s Gospel: the faith of the centurion. He believed that one word from Jesus was enough to heal. He didn't need signs, visits, or proof — only the assurance that Christ cared. And Jesus was amazed at such faith.
This is the faith we are invited to live today.
Many times we feel like the people of Judah — our lives shaken, plans disrupted, hopes weakened. Sometimes we feel like the centurion — painfully aware of our unworthiness and the brokenness around us. Yet, Advent whispers a steady truth:
✨ God still cares.
✨ God still sees.
✨ God still has a plan.
And even when life feels plundered or uncertain, Christ assures us that His word is enough to sustain us, heal us, and carry us until the day we see Him face to face.
As we continue this Advent journey, may we hold on to the faith of the remnant and the trust of the centurion — confident that the Lord who promises to return is the same Lord who walks with us now.
*“Come, Lord Jesus… let your face shine on us and we shall be saved.”*
Blessed Advent to you all. 🕯️💜
