Monday of the 1st week of Advent
Gospel Matthew 8:5-11
“Sir, I am not worthy to have you under my roof; just give the word and my servant will be cured”. Advent is recognizing one’s own unworthiness and opening up to the mercy of God.The words of the centurion express an attitude that lies at the heart of Advent: recognizing one’s own unworthiness while trusting fully in God’s power and mercy. Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation, not just for the celebration of Christ’s birth but for His coming into our lives here and now. It is a time to pause and reflect on the ways we fall short—our imperfections, sins, and frailties. Like the centurion, we acknowledge that we are not deserving of God’s presence through our own merits. Yet Advent is not a season of despair or self-condemnation; rather, it is one of hope and openness to transformation. The centurion models an essential posture for Advent. This is a lesson for all who journey through Advent: our unworthiness is not a barrier to God but an invitation to encounter His grace more profoundly. Just trusting in the Lord and in His Word which will work miracle in our life. Let’s reflect: How can I embrace the centurion’s humility and faith during Advent, recognizing my own unworthiness while fully trusting in God’s mercy and the transformative power of His Word in my life?
Don Giorgio