Shikrot Mpwi – Sunday Synopsis
Fr. Justine John DYIKUK
Dear friends in Christ,
On the First Sunday of Advent, Year A (30 November 2025), I bring you greetings and God’s blessings!
Theme: Personal Transformation Through Advent!
Introduction
Beloved in Christ, “To everything there is a season, and a time under heaven” (Ecc. 3:1). It is another Season of Advent. Advent comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “the coming.” It signifies expectant waiting for Christ’s birth at Christmas and second coming as depicted by the liturgical colour purple/violet. The first reading invites us to learn from God’s ways, while St. Paul urges us to wake up and put off the works of darkness, embracing the armour of light. In the gospel, Jesus highlights how many ignored God’s warnings during Noah’s time, choosing instead to indulge in daily life.
Background and Summary of the Readings
The first reading (Is 2:1-5) conveys God’s open invitation to learn from his ways and walk in his paths/light. It highlights that on that mountain, the Lord will wield authority and establish peace, with no need for training for war.
In the second reading (Rom 13:11-14), St. Paul urges the Romans to wake up now because salvation is nearer than it was when they were converted. He challenged them to put off the works of darkness—drunken orgies, promiscuity, licentiousness, wrangling, and jealousy—and put on the armour of light.
In the Gospel (Matthew 24:37-44), Jesus describes how God’s judgment fell on people during Noah’s time because they ignored His warnings, likening His Second Coming to that period. This comparison emphasises that Advent is a time for preparedness. It creates spiritual nostalgia by recalling the incarnation, where Christ’s birth established an everlasting kingdom. He ascended to the Father, promising to return in glory—a moment we eagerly await.
Takeaway Lessons
- The prophet Isaiah’s message about God’s judgment, Saint Paul’s warning to shun fleshly desires, and Jesus’ call for personal transformation are fitting spiritual recipes for Advent.
- Noah’s art symbolizes the Church as a refuge for redemption, encouraging all to “cast off the works of darkness” (Rom 13:12) and embrace gospel values by resisting the desires of the flesh.
- Catholics are encouraged to use Advent to prepare for the celebration of the Lord’s coming as the incarnate God of love.
- They are warmly invited to transform their souls into worthy sanctuaries for the Redeemer, who arrives in Holy Communion and through the gift of grace.
- We are called to be vigilant and prepared for his return as the judge, both at the time of our death and when the world comes to an end.
- Conclusion
This season enhances our understanding of the Christ-events that Advent prepares for and Christmas celebrates. Jesus’ reference to Noah highlights that Advent is about preparing our hearts to welcome Him, both personally and in Holy Communion. As we await Christmas and the glorious hope of His second coming, we remember Isaiah’s assurance that God will judge nations and call us to walk in His light (Cf. Is 2:1-5). Christians must stay vigilant, avoiding distractions that might catch them off guard. This time is an opportunity to invite Jesus into our hearts for personal transformation and the greater events to come. Wishing you a grace-filled Advent!
