# First Sunday of Advent: Watchful Waiting – Looking Backward and Forward
*2022-11-28*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke reflect on the theme of the First Sunday of Advent—watchful waiting—exploring how the season invites us to look back at God’s past deeds and forward to Christ’s promised return.

## Introducing the Advent Book

We begin Advent a day late, thanks to Father Steve at St. David Catholic Church in Plantation, Florida, who provided us with the new devotional, *Advent, Hope and Promises: Daily Reflections on the Advent Mass Readings*. The editor, Steve Miller, writes that Advent is a time for renewing our hope, not merely wishing for better circumstances but rooting our hope in the person and promise of God. He reminds us that our creed affirms not just belief in God but trust in His reliable faithfulness to be with us and transform our lives.

## A Prayer for the Week

Each week the book offers a prayer. This week’s prayer, drawn from St. Ignatius, asks:

“Lord Jesus, when we are weary and feel our weakness, grant us the presence of Your love and strength. Help us to place perfect trust in Your protecting love, that nothing may frighten or trouble us. Amen.”

## The Theme of Watchful Waiting

The First Sunday of Advent is called “Watchful Waiting.” We await the birth of Christ anew, anticipating not only His humble incarnation but also His glorious return at the end of time. The liturgical readings for the day are Isaiah 2, Romans 13, and Matthew 24. Isaiah speaks of a future reign of peace, when nations turn swords into plowshares and walk in God’s light. This vision of peace is the hope we carry forward throughout Advent.

## Looking Backward and Forward

Today’s reflection, titled “Looking Backward and Forward,” invites us to let the past illuminate the future. By meditating on the Incarnation, we see the signs of Christ’s first coming and, in them, the promise of His second coming. The prophets reminded Israel of God’s mighty deeds, enabling them to look forward with confidence. Likewise, recalling God’s salvific actions helps us discern His ongoing work and prepares us for the fulfillment of His kingdom.

## Living the Advent Hope

Pope Francis reminds us that Advent calls us to open our hearts to welcome Jesus—not only at Christmas but also in anticipation of His return. This means making consistent, courageous choices that ready us for that final encounter. As we reflect on the humble birth of Jesus and the promise of His peaceful return, we are invited to pray, attend daily Mass, and let the Gospel’s good news transform our lives.

*Advent asks us to let the memory of Christ’s first coming shape our hope for His return, so we may live each day with watchful, faithful anticipation.*