Nov 29.pub

Sirach 48:1-4,9-11

Psalm 80:2AC and 3B, 15-16, 18-19

Matthew 17:9A, 10-13

Summary

In the first reading we learn of the deeds of the prophet Elijah and followed

in Psalms are prayers for God’s mercy. In Luke, we are reminded of the

Lord’s coming and in Matthew three disciples fully understand that John the

Baptist came in the power and spirit of Elijah.

Reflection

In the Gospel reading, the disciples Peter, James and John are with Jesus

coming down the mountain. They have just witnessed Jesus with Moses and

Elijah along with the voice of God, which frightened them. Jesus orders

them to not disclose to anyone what they have seen until the Son of Man has

been raised from the dead.

Have you ever been asked to keep something secret? Under no circumstanc-

es tell a soul? That’s a huge responsibility and a very difficult thing to, some-

times impossible, even if you understand the reason. Recently, some of my

grade students read historical fiction novels about the holocaust and how

people hid Jews to protect them from the Nazis (and ultimately, death). As

I was reading the passage from this gospel, I thought how ironic that the

Jews in the novels were doing everything to save their lives. They were rely-

ing on people keeping their whereabouts secret so they might live and here

Jesus knew he had to die a horrific death in order for us to be saved and he

was demanding the disciples keep His secret so he would die. His death

would bring us eternal life.

Life! That is what this advent season is having

us prepare for, the celebration of the birth of

our Lord Jesus Christ. As we anxiously await

Christmas Day, let us be mindful of all the

blessings we have because Jesus gave His life

for us. Have a blessed advent season and

prepare ye the way of the Lord!