Year C: Second Sunday of Advent

Second Reading: based on St Paul's Letter to the Philippians 1: 3-6, 8-11

The theme of today’s Second Reading echoes that of last week’s - of living pure and blameless lives so that we are ready to meet Christ.

Last week, we focused on the idea of a review of the year - and to begin to look ahead to hopes - dreams and good resolutions for next year.

The reading today, offers more advice for what that might include... certainly to continue to grow in love but St Paul also encourages the Philippians to “increase more and more and never stop improving (their) knowledge and deepening perception.” This, he says, will help them always to discern what is best - what is life-giving.

Perhaps, as part of the review of the past year - and preparations for the next, a consideration of what you have learnt about your faith could be useful. What do you now know about God - the Church - Scripture - tradition - your own spirituality that you did not know this time last year?

How can you build on that knowledge? Are there any areas of faith or religious practice that you are hazy on? If, for example, someone comes to the door and asks about the end of the world - how could you respond more confidently?

There are numerous books looking at every aspect of the spiritual life and discipleship. For those on the Internet, there are sites which allow you to access some of the great religious libraries of the world. Perhaps this is the year to choose a topic - or book - and spend time reading and, perhaps more importantly, reflecting on your faith.

There are also groups and courses which enable you to meet new people and learn something of their perspective on faith.

You may want to try a different kind of prayer. Even if you decide it is not for you, you will probably find that it offers new insights and enriches your regular prayer.

What does it mean for me?

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