First Sunday of Advent [A]
November 30, 2025
Matthew 24:37-44

We begin the liturgical year by celebrating the First Sunday of Advent. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “Adventus,” meaning “arrival.” In the Catholic context, Advent signifies the arrival of Jesus Christ. Our faith teaches that Jesus comes to the world in two ways. His first coming was in the flesh, when the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, the divine and uncreated Logos, became man and lived in first-century Palestine. His second coming will be at the end of time, when He will return as the Judge of the living and the dead.

This duality of Christ’s coming is reflected in the Sunday readings throughout Advent. The first and second Sundays focus primarily on the second coming of Jesus, while the third and fourth Sundays speak more of His first coming. This pattern is crucial because it teaches us that Advent—and, by extension, Christmas—is not only about the birth of a baby in Bethlehem but also about the return of Christ the King. The first arrival highlights Jesus’ tenderness and mercy, while the second reveals His divine justice.

Therefore, Advent invites us into two distinct modes of waiting: a joyful anticipation of the loving infant Jesus, and a sober awareness of the divine judgment of Christ the King. Maintaining this tension is challenging, as we often favor one aspect over the other. Some focus exclusively on the joy of the Nativity, forgetting the need to prepare for God’s judgment. Others live in constant fear of divine wrath, overlooking God’s profound love and mercy.

Though difficult, holding both truths in balance is essential for our salvation. Jesus Himself warns His disciples that in the days of Noah, people were absorbed in their daily lives when the flood suddenly came. Conversely, if we are trapped in fear and anxiety about hell, we cannot live the joyful life God intends. So, how do we maintain a healthy balance between these two kinds of waiting?

The answer lies in what we can call the “third” coming of Christ. If the first Advent is His incarnation and the second is His role as Judge, this third coming occurs between these two. It is Christ’s daily arrival in our lives through various means. Jesus promised to be with us until the end of time (Matthew 28:20). He comes to us in the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist, where He is fully present under the appearances of bread and wine. When we worship Him at Mass with reverence, we form our souls to properly welcome Him as the King of the Universe.

When we regularly read Scripture and live according to God’s word, we are conformed to the likeness of Christ. Then, when He comes as Judge, He will recognize us as His own. When we dedicate time to prayer, devotion, and adoration, we familiarize ourselves with the voice of our Shepherd. Thus, at His second coming, we will know exactly which voice to follow when the King calls our name.

Surabaya

Valentinus Bayuhadi Ruseno, OP

Questions for Reflection:

• How do we prepare for Christmas? Is our preparation focused on external things like decorations, travel, and new clothes? Or do we prioritize spiritual preparation by striving to live more fully according to God’s will?
• How do we prepare for Jesus’ second coming with joy rather than fear? Do we attend Mass out of obligation, habit, or a genuine desire to worship God?