Sunday Gospel reflections: The face in the mirror
2nd Sunday of Advent, Year A
John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea [and] saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:1-2)
There are times my children’s faults weigh heavily on me. Why does she procrastinate so? Why don’t they pick up after themselves? Why doesn’t he seem to have a plan for his life? Why can’t he control his temper better?
But there’s a funny thing: It’s called a mirror. For, without exception, I can look in the mirror and see every single one of the flaws that irritate me so in others reflected there. Every one!
How much of my energy is spent in detecting and correcting the faults of others? During Advent, it’s time for me to listen to John the Baptist, to admit my own faults and sins, and to repent of them, to let God’s mercy fill me so that I might become more merciful in turn.
St. John the Baptist, I’m listening to your call. Pray for me.
— Amy Welborn
Isaiah 11:1-10
Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17
Romans 15:4-9
Matthew 3:1-12
