Many things happen in our lives; some are positive, some are negative, and some are challenging. Our human nature tends to dwell too much on negative and challenging experiences, which are often hard to let go of.
The Psalm from the first Sunday of Advent reminds us to call on the Lord because God will save us. Advent marks the
beginning of the new liturgical year, but in the secular space, the new year only begins on 1 January, making this the perfect time to reflect on the year and look forward to the ‘new year.’
Perhaps we have turned away from God and focussed too much on what is happening around us. Wars and conflicts around the world result in people dying indiscriminately, corruption taking away the resources that could help better the lives and future of the poor, the rising cost
of living coupled with our struggling economy, and inequality. The list is a long one. Crime is on the rise as well. It is not easy to focus on God.
In our personal spaces and homes, we also face difficulties: the experience of caring for a loved one who is terminally ill, the loss of a breadwinner’s job, and poverty. There could also be a lingering divorce or separation of the parents and having to act like everything is well for the
children's sake so that they finish their exams without too many interruptions. We are encouraged today to look at our efforts and fix our eyes on the Lord, who will come to our aid.
Sometimes, our sins and wounds turn us away from God. However, we are reminded today and should remember throughout Advent that nobody is so enslaved by sin that they cannot be freed and redeemed. When the Lord comes, he shall redeem us, and we will be
saved.
What might have led you to turn away from the Lord? Turn to him today, expressing your desire to see his face and experience his presence and redemption.
Reflections by
Morongoa Selepe
