The readings in Advent are geared toward the meaning of the season. We begin with a message of inclusivity. “I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jaco at the banquet in the Kingdom of heaven.” The “coming” of Jesus we celebrate in Advent is not limited to his birth in Bethlehem more than 2000 years ago. We also anticipate when Christ will come gain and make all things new in a universal fellowship of peace. Of course, every day at Mass we echo the words of the centurion ( “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof”) as a reminder that there is yet another coming of Jesus — in the Holy Eucharist. Advent invites us to become aware of the many ways Jesus comes to us.
