Gospel Reflection - Second Sunday of Advent Year A


Matthew 3:1-12

"Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!"

"Even now the ax lies at the root of the trees." 

Repentance is more than just being sorry for what you've done wrong. It's about being sorry AND wanting to make a change for the better, to not sin again and to make reparation. Given our fallen nature, due to the effects of Original Sin, this is no easy task & definitely not something we can do all on our own.

That is why we have the great Sacrament of Reconciliation. We confess our sins to the priest, who is "in persona Christi" (in the person of Christ). In an Act of Contrition, we pray, "I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy Grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin." 

Our roots of sin will continue to grow deeper into our souls if we don't do something to stop them. We need more than just pruning. Only God can reach the depths to strike with His Grace & Forgiveness. And with the Holy Spirit guiding our conscience, we can avoid those situations which may lead us to sin.

So, if you haven't been to Confession in a while, make it a priority to go during this Advent season. Jesus is coming... let's prepare our hearts & souls for His arrival! 

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