It is more than a question of posture…
This reflection came to me after reading today’s gospel text (Luke 21:25-28,34-36).

At times, walking on the street, we meet people with the neck deep into their coat.
They go about stooped, with sad faces, obviously downcast and depressed.

We would not be surprised to see such people present in the gospel of this celebration.
The text describes future events that are rather frightening.
The images presented to us represent happenings which we would like to escape.
We are even told:

“People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world”.

Yet, amazingly, in the second verse after this, we are told:

“When these things begin to take place,
stand up and lift up your heads,
because your redemption is drawing near.”

Yes, it is more than a question of posture!
It is a question of faith in the words of him who has told us:
“Remember that I am always with you until the end of time” (Matthew 28:20).

It is a question of relying on him who assures us:
“Your redemption is drawing near.”

Redemption, liberation: being free from whatever would cause fear, anxiety, restlessness.
This is the message addressed to us as we enter the period of Advent –
the period of awakening to his presence “until the end of time”.

Note: Another reflection is available on a different theme in French at: https://image-i-nations.com/1er-dimanche-de-lavent-annee-c-2024-2025/

Source: Images: pexels.com (Fatin Rifat; Mike)