Advent invites us deeper into God’s peace. Today, John the Baptist calls out: “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand!” Many hear those words as a threat, but Scripture offers something very different. Repentance—metanoia—is an invitation to turn our hearts back to the Lord who loves us.
Isaiah speaks of “Fear of the Lord”. This is not terror but deep awe before God’s holiness, and loving obedience toward the One who knows us best. It means hating sin not out of fear, but because sin distracts us from the God who made us for love.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is an important part of this change of life and fear of the Lord. Confession is more than forgiveness; it is an encounter with Jesus who heals our wounds and restores peace where anxiety once lived. When we repent, we make room for Christ’s presence in our hearts and in our lives.
This Advent, may we open ourselves to God’s mercy and welcome the Prince of Peace who is already near.
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