“Raise your head because redemption is at hand.” (Lk. 21:28). Jesus challenges us this 1st Sunday of Advent to take time and take a good look at our sinful realities and open ourselves to possibilities of greater sanctity and true greatness. The right attitude for this Advent season is that of hope. No matter how low or how far we have wandered from God’s love, we are always welcome to rise up and to come closer to God’s heart.

“My Kingdom is not here.” (Jn. 18:36b) When Jesus was brought to Pilate, He said to him, “My kingdom does not belong to this world.” Pilate could not understand why he had to intervene in this mocked trial, because he actually did not have a problem if Jesus claimed to be the King of the Jews. The RomanEmpire by policy, allowed kings to rule in their realm for as long as they are under his authority. When Jesus claimed He is the King of the Jews, many did not understand Him, because His statement should be understood in the context of His Messianic Mission.

“The Son of Man coming in the clouds, with great power and glory...” (Mk. 12:44) By His coming in power and glory, the Lord wants this option for us: He is inviting us to live with Him in Glory. The Son of Man came to save us from eternal death, and to offer a passage from death to life. He is the “once and for all” sacrifice for our sins. The mission for man is to complete the task, the passage from the slavery of sin which causes death, sharing the fullness of life with Him.

“From her poverty, has contributed all she had...” (Mk. 12:44)

God wants people to do good out of pure sincerity. It is not so much the quantity as the quality of our giving that matters. This Jesus pointed out when He put more value to the widow’s mite rather than the rich peoples’ surplus. And all believers should give to the Lord. Giving is a privilege and a responsibility for those who have received from God first.