Daily Catholic Lectio
Sun, 8 December ‘24
Second Sunday of Advent
Baruch 5:1-9. Psalm 126. Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11. Luke 3:1-6
A call to peace and direction
The candle we light on this second Sunday of Advent is called the Bethlehem Candle, symbolizing peace. As we journey through life, we face two possible paths: one leading towards God and the other away from Him. These paths are in direct opposition. A change in direction is not just physical but also spiritual—a transformation of heart and life. Our work, relationships, and choices reflect this direction. In families, we either nurture bonds of love or drift apart. In our work, we either find joy and purpose or feel burdened.
The story of the prodigal son (Luke 15) beautifully illustrates this truth. The son’s journey away from his father leads him to poverty, but his return fills the house with joy. Similarly, Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) changes direction by moving toward Jesus, and his life is transformed.
The way to discern our path is through peace. St. Augustine said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” True peace, or Shalom, is not merely the absence of trouble but a sense of wholeness, like a pot without cracks. Peace is found when we move from our restless mind to the quiet of our heart.
(a) The Lord guides our change of direction
The Psalmist proclaims, “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream” (Psalm 126).Dreams cannot satisfy like reality. The Lord alone transforms captivity into freedom and sorrow into joy.
In the first reading (Baruch 5:1-9), the prophet Baruch offers hope to the Israelites in exile, painting a vivid picture of five transformations:
- The garment of suffering will be replaced with the glory of the Lord.
- The barren wilderness will bloom with God’s splendour.
- Names of shame will be replaced with titles like Peace in Justice and Glory of Divine Majesty.
- Slaves will be carried with honour like kings on a palanquin.
- Rugged paths of captivity will become fragrant and smooth.
The path from Babylon to Jerusalem was one of tears, pain, and loss. But the Lord promises a new journey—one of dignity, joy, and protection. Where the old path stank of blood and sweat, the new path is perfumed with life and healing.
(b) Remaining faithful to the new path
The people of Philippi, once lost, found their new direction through faith in Jesus. St. Paul encourages them to continue growing in knowledge, love, and good deeds, ensuring they remain on this path of righteousness.
(c) John the Baptist: Preparing the new way
John the Baptist calls us to prepare the way for the Lord. In this new path, Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled: “Every valley shall be filled, every mountain and hill made low” (Isaiah 40:4).
- Valleys represent our fears and inadequacies.
- Mountains symbolize pride and lofty ambitions that block our vision.
- Crooked paths are the lies we believe, while rough places are distractions.
To prepare, we must embrace both new beginnings and renewal of the old. Choosing a new path requires courage, while renewing an existing one demands perseverance.
The Lord transforms our sorrow into joy, turning tears of sowing into songs of reaping. As we journey towards Him this Advent, may the obstacles before us not deter us. Let us walk this new path with hope, trusting in the Lord’s guiding hand, as we light the Bethlehem Candle and welcome the peace only He can give.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi (@ Sower)
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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