The golden thread in today’s readings is Elijah. In the first reading from Malachi 3, the LORD says, “Lo, I will send you Elijah, the prophet, before the day of the LORD comes.” The Gospel reading from Luke 1 is the story of the birth of John the Baptist. Years later, Jesus assured His disciples that John was Elijah, the prophet who would come to usher in the age of the Messiah.
Also in the first reading, we read this: “And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek, and the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts.” We know that the prophesy was fulfilled in Jesus. But wait! There’s more!
That’s what Advent is all about. We know that Jesus came into the world nearly 2000 years ago. But we also know that He will come again. And we must be prepared when He does. So Advent not only prepares us to celebrate the birth of Christ, but to prepare for His second coming – whenever that may be. Even though He’s already been here, rest assured that He is coming.
Father, may we be prepared for the coming of the Lord – past and future. Amen.
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