Psalm Reflection: Second Sunday of Advent (Cycle C)

“The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.” - Psalm 126

In the midst of the season of Advent, I sometimes feel like I don’t know how I am supposed to feel. Advent is a season of preparation and penitence (not to the degree of Lent, but similar), but also a season of joy and anticipation. Those things do not seem to fit together for me, you know? Like, I never get excited when I am packing for vacation. I get excited when I am there enjoying the vacation! The preparation is usually the least fun part, so how on earth am I supposed to be joyful? 

Having recently become a dad, I feel like one way we can see the beauty of Advent is to think about pregnancy. If you were to list all of the symptoms or side effects of pregnancy apart from having a child, people would not have a joyful response to that list. However, because that sacrifice is driven by the joyful anticipation of meeting your child, the preparation is all worth it. When this Psalm was written, the Hebrews were praising God who had FINALLY delivered them from exile after 70 years of being away from their homeland. It wasn’t relief from a minor inconvenience, it was lifetimes of waiting in anticipation for the joyful return they had been promised. So this Advent, let your heart grow in patience for the big things you have been waiting for God to do, and try to simply be faithful in the small things. Whether it is homework, chores, errands or that thing you have been putting off for weeks, take some time this week to be faithful to the responsibilities God has given you, and be reminded that He will be faithful no matter what. There is always joy after the cross. We are praying for you!

See you in the Eucharist!