Advent Reflections – Day 24 (23rd December 2025)
First reading: Malachi 3:1-4; 4:5-6)
Psalm: 25:4-5ab.8-9.10 and 14 (R. see Luke 21:28)
Gospel: Luke 1:57-66
“But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears?” (Mal 3:2)
As we approach the climax of the advent season, the first reading shifts our focus to the second coming of Christ rather than the first, which we will celebrate at Christmas. The essence of Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection was the redemption of the humanity. (John 3:16)
Through our redemption, God has given us the power to reign with him in this world and in the next. (John 1:12) However, the question we all need to ask ourselves is that “Will I be ready at His second coming?” Brethren, all we need to do to make ourselves ready is to cooperate with the grace of God, for as the Lord tells us: “my grace is sufficient for you…”. (2 Cor 12:9)
Most times, discussions about the second coming of the Lord or the day of judgement invokes fear. However, this should not be the case because “there is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out every fear, for fear has to do with punishment and he who fears has not attained perfection in love”. (1 John 4:18)
Jesus is our love. (Rom 8:35, Rev 2:4) He is our bridegroom, and we are his bride. (Eph 5:25-32) Thus, in the same way a bride prepares for the arrival of her bridegroom, we should also prepare for the appearance of the Lord not in fear or trepidation but with longing expectation. To overcome fear, we must always open ourselves to the love of God until we are completely filled with his love. (Eph 3:14 -19)
In the Gospel reading, we observe clearly that women are accorded little regard in the Jewish society. The relegation of the women folks to the background is common in many societies. The family wanted to name the child Zachariah after his father, but the mother told them his name is John. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit vindicated Elizabeth when Zachariah confirmed that the name was John. This event teaches us about the importance of the name of a child. John, meaning “God is gracious” reflects the special mission of John the Baptist. Parents should seek the face of God before giving names to their children, as every child has a unique destiny.
Written by Bro Damilola Akinmuwagun