First Sunday of Advent: A Season of Hopeful Vigilance 

(Isaiah 2:1–5, Romans 13:11–14, Matthew 24:37–44) 

Dear Parish Family, Today the Church begins a new liturgical year—a fresh journey of faith for the People of God. As always, we set out with the season of Advent, a sacred time that invites us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord. The readings from Isaiah, Romans, and Matthew guide us into this spiritual renewal. 

In the first reading (Isaiah 2:1–5), the prophet offers a vision of hope: all nations streaming toward the mountain of the Lord, seeking His teaching and peace. Isaiah’s prophecy encourages us to “walk in the light of the Lord,” allowing God’s word to shape our decisions and relationships. This hopeful vision becomes our Advent roadmap—a world transformed by God’s presence. 

St. Paul, in Romans 13:11–14, urges us to “wake from sleep,” for “the night is far gone, the day is at hand.” Advent is not only a season of waiting but also of spiritual awakening. Paul reminds us to cast off the “works of darkness” and to put on Christ—to live with integrity, self-control, compassion, and holiness. Advent challenges us to examine our hearts honestly and to renew our desire to live as children of the light. 

The Gospel (Matthew 24:37–44) introduces one of Advent’s most powerful themes: the Lord’s coming. Jesus speaks of His final return at the end of time, comparing it to the days of Noah, when people were absorbed in their routines and failed to notice what God was doing. The Lord is not trying to frighten us but to expand our vision. Everyday life—our work, our relationships, our responsibilities—can either dull our awareness or become the very place where we meet Him. 

Advent teaches us that the Lord comes in three ways: 

His first coming in the humility of Bethlehem; 

His continual coming to us each day, walking beside us as a consoling presence; 

His final coming in glory at the end of time. 

Because we do not know the hour of His return, Jesus invites us to remain vigilant—to live each day ready to welcome Him, attentive to His presence, and anchored in hope. 

This season calls us to simplicity, gratitude, and openness. It invites us to loosen our grip on our own plans and to make room for God’s surprising grace. May Mary, the Virgin of Advent, help us to welcome the Lord who comes—sometimes quietly, sometimes unexpectedly—always to lead us into a more beautiful and grace-filled life. 

Fr. Clement Sahaya Anand SAC, Parochial Vicar.