THERE is still a great need for conversion in each of us. When we think that we’re doing well with the practice of our faith, other people call our attention to some of our unchristian attitudes and ways. We may not like what we hear from them; we may disagree with their assessment about us, but when we look thoroughly into our lives we realize that they are right; we still need a lot of growing up to do.
Advent is a call for conversion. John the Baptist proclaims this message in the Gospel this Sunday: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make straights his paths. Every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill shall be made low. The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth.” Advent is the strengthening of the uneven and crooked shapes of our lives, the broadening of our horizons, the transformation of our experiences, and, indeed, the reform of our ways.
Paul wishes this too in his Letter to the Philippians. He says: “And this is my prayer: that your love may increase even more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.”
Advent, therefore, is never a time to be arrogant, proud, and self-righteous. We cannot say, “Oh yeah, I’m right and they’re not; they’re the ones who are terrible.” Advent is a period of gracefulness, gentleness, nobility, decency, and humility, both in words and actions. In the Book of Isaiah, the images of the wolf being the guest of the lamb; the leopard lying down with the kid; and the calf and the young browsing together speak of the need for harmony and peace among us that can only come when we bring out goodness, kindness, and compassion from within our hearts.
At times we do have to watch what we say and how we express our thoughts. Having a second look of one’s demeanor is a humble act. Accepting one’s faults is a heroic act. Advent calls us to bring out both these remarkable acts.
We thank God for this period of Advent that calls for change. After all, isn’t it our longing: to be better persons, especially as we approach another year? We’d like to journey this coming year on straighter and broader paths, and with humble and trusting spirits. Deep within each of us is a kind and loving person that is willing to come out, to shine, and to bring smiles in people.
May this Advent be a period of special graces for all of us in which we become renewed and hopeful! May we be filled with endurance and encouragement to live in harmony and peace with one another!
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Reverend Rodel G. Balagtas attended St. John Seminary in Camarillo, California and earned his Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. For twenty years, he has been in the parish ministry of large multi-cultural communities. Since 2002, he has been the pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Los Angeles. Please email Fr. Rodel at [email protected].
