To assist you during your Advent journey, each week we will share a brief video reflection offered by a member of the Notre Dame community. This first reflection comes from Rev. William M. Lies, C.S.C., ’93, Vice President for Mission Engagement and Church Affairs, with the hopes of enriching your Advent season.

Gospel: Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

Jesus said to his disciples:
"There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,
and on earth nations will be in dismay,
perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
People will die of fright
in anticipation of what is coming upon the world,
for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
And then they will see the Son of Man
coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
But when these signs begin to happen,
stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.

"Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy
from carousing and drunkenness
and the anxieties of daily life,
and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.
For that day will assault everyone
who lives on the face of the earth.
Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength
to escape the tribulations that are imminent
and to stand before the Son of Man."

Prayer

We and praise and thank you, O Lord our God: You bless your church each year with the pledge that a new season of prayer, enlightenment and hope is fast approaching: we name it Advent, that is, the promise of an eternal-abiding presence of your Son, the Christ.

May the ever-present threat of war and earthly devastation, not deter us from our task of following the model of your Son who invites us each day to make justice and peace possible in our time and in time to come. We pray in His name, he who was, who is and who is yet to come, Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

-Rev. LeRoy E. Clementich, C.S.C.