Come Lord Jesus Series
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Advent Wreath: Come Lord Jesus series Icon. |
Monday — Third Week of Advent (Year A)
Entrance Antiphon:
Reflection
As the third week of Advent
unfolds, the tone of the liturgy shifts yet again. The call today is not simply
to watch or to rejoice, but to listen: “Hear the word of the Lord.”
Advent has been forming our desire, sharpening our sight, awakening joy — and
now it asks for something very concrete: attentive hearing.
The invitation is addressed not
only to Israel but to the nations. What God is doing is not hidden, private, or
exclusive. The good news of Advent is meant to be spoken aloud, carried
outward, declared “to the distant lands.” Salvation is not a secret to be
guarded; it is a promise to be shared. And the message itself is beautifully
simple: “Behold, our Saviour will come.”
Then comes the line that touches
the heart most directly: “You need no longer fear.”
Advent is honest about fear. It does not pretend that fear disappears
overnight. But it insists that fear does not get the final word. The coming of
the Saviour reframes everything. Fear loses its grip when we realise we are not
alone, not forgotten, not abandoned to our own strength.
Notice what the antiphon does not
say. It does not say that all difficulties will immediately vanish. It does not
promise a life free of struggle. Instead, it announces a presence — a Saviour
who comes toward us, who enters the very places where fear lives, and who
stays.
As we move closer to Christmas,
Advent’s message becomes increasingly tender and direct. God does not shout us
into courage; He draws near and says, quietly but firmly: Do not be afraid.
This is a word worth hearing
again and again — especially in the busy, emotionally charged days leading up
to Christmas. The Saviour comes not to add pressure, but to lift burdens. He
comes not to judge our readiness, but to bring mercy, peace, and reassurance.
Practice for Today:
When anxiety or hurry arises throughout the day, take these three steps
1. Stop: Stopping where you are and closing your eyes is crucial.
2. Pause and inhale and exhale 3 slow breaths and then
3. pray: "Lord, You are coming. I do not need to fear today.”
Come, Lord Jesus.
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