Repent! Prepare!

Homily for Saturday of the Second Week in Advent

Today marks the end of the first part of our Advent journey. Every year on December 17th, we turn our attention to the proximate preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus. Consequently, the readings that we proclaim today are important in that they bring our consideration of the second coming of Jesus to a close.

Many of the gospel readings we hear during the season of Advent featured John the Baptist. In an earlier chapter of St. Matthew’s Gospel, we learn of the baptism of Christ performed by John the Baptist. Standing in the water at the Jordan River, John baptizes Jesus; and as he does this, the heavens open and God speaks. Speaking out loud for all to hear, God acknowledges Jesus as the Beloved Son.

Today’s Gospel account directly follows the Transfiguration of Christ. High on the mountain, Jesus is transfigured with white garments and bright light. Jesus converses with Elijah and Moses while the disciples fall prostrate in fear. The heavens again open, and the voice of God repeats: “This is my Beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”

The Transfiguration not only supports the identity of Jesus as the son of God, but the added the statement, “listen to him,” identifies him as the messenger and mouthpiece of God. Jesus is greater than Moses and Elijah. God assigns to Jesus a special honor and glory. It is the turning point at which God exalts Jesus above all other powers in creation, and positions him as ruler and judge. While the disciples wait for Elijah to come again, Jesus explains that Elijah came and was mistreated, and Jesus, too, will suffer, die, and rise from the dead. Everything will be revealed in time.

During Advent, we prepare for Christ’s coming. The kingdom of heaven is almost at hand. We must prepare. This is the expectation shared by John the Baptist and the church during this holy season. Repent, and prepare the way!