Preparing for Christ's Coming

Gospel According to Luke, the Third Sunday of Lent

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Reflection: Preparing for Christ’s Coming

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Luke 3:10-18, John the Baptist calls us to action: “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” The crowd’s question, “What should we do?” resonates deeply during Advent, a season of anticipation and preparation. It’s a question that invites self-examination and a realignment of priorities as we await the coming of Christ.

Advent is filled with excitement—decorating, gift-giving, and social gatherings—but sometimes these activities pull our focus away from the heart of the season. The hustle and bustle can leave us more harried than holy, more focused on lists than love. Yet John’s words remind us to pause and reflect. Advent is not just about counting down days; it’s about readying our hearts.

John’s message is clear: genuine preparation involves transformation. It calls us to give generously, act justly, and seek humility. His stern warning—that the Messiah’s winnowing fan is at hand—challenges us to let go of anything in our lives that doesn’t bear good fruit. This pruning can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential if we are to truly welcome Christ into our lives.

The anticipation of Advent is not passive waiting. It’s active and intentional, inviting us to shift from self-centeredness to Christ-centeredness. What might this look like in our daily lives? It might mean spending less time shopping and more time serving. It might mean less focus on perfecting holiday décor and more focus on perfecting our love for others. And it most certainly means making space for prayer and reflection.

As we light the third Advent candle, traditionally the candle of joy, let’s remember that true joy comes not from the perfect holiday but from the presence of Jesus in our lives. John’s call to repentance is not a harsh demand but a pathway to freedom and peace. When we slow down, simplify, and focus, we prepare a place for the Christ child in our hearts.

This Advent, let’s accept John’s invitation to turn away from distraction and toward the light of Christ. One powerful way to do this is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Take time to encounter Christ in this sacred moment. Listen as He speaks words of forgiveness and healing. Let His mercy wash over you, renewing your heart and soul. Then go out and stay focused, always toward the light—the light of Christ’s love shining from your heart.

In doing so, we will find not just the joy of the season but the everlasting joy that only He can bring.

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Journal or Private deep reflection:

1. How can I better reflect the light of Christ's love in my interactions with others?

2. What does joy mean to me in the context of my faith, and how can I cultivate it this Advent?

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For practicing Lectio Divina, consider Luke 3:16:

“John answered them all, ‘I baptize you with water, but one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’”