Romans 15:4-13 and Matthew 11:2-10
Feria V, Advent II – December 12, 2024
The Church, in her wisdom, places before us today two readings that harmonize in proclaiming the hope and joy fulfilled in Christ. As we journey through Advent, we anticipate both the celebration of the Nativity and the glorious return of Our Lord. In this spirit, today’s readings call us to steadfast faith and joyful expectation. Let us meditate on their meaning, drawing from the wisdom of the Church Fathers.
Hope and Perseverance in the Scriptures (Romans 15:4-13)
St. Paul reminds us that “whatsoever things were written, were written for our learning; that through patience and the comfort of the Scriptures, we might have hope” (Rom 15:4). This exhortation underscores the continuity of salvation history, wherein the promises made to Israel find their fulfillment in Christ. The Scriptures are not mere historical records but living testimonies, guiding us in patience and hope.
The great commentator St. Augustine explains:
“The Scriptures are our letters from home. They instruct us, sustain us, and direct our hearts to our heavenly inheritance.”
In them, we witness God’s fidelity to His covenant, which inspires us to trust in His providence, even amidst trials. Moreover, St. Paul’s prayer that we might be “of one mind and one mouth glorifying God” (Rom 15:6) points to the unity of the Church, foreshadowed in Israel’s calling. St. John Chrysostom affirms:
“This unity is the fruit of Christ’s coming. For as He gathered the dispersed, so now He knits together all who believe in Him, Jew and Gentile alike, into one body.”
Paul’s reference to Christ as the “root of Jesse” (Rom 15:12) calls to mind the Messianic prophecy of Isaiah 11:10, reaffirming the universal scope of salvation. The Gentiles, who once stood afar, are now heirs of the promise. This inclusion reveals the breadth of God’s mercy, prompting us to sing with the psalmist: “Praise the Lord, all ye nations” (Ps 116:1).
Christ’s Works Reveal His Identity (Matthew 11:2-10)
In the Gospel, we see St. John the Baptist, from his prison cell, sending disciples to ask Jesus, “Art Thou He that is to come, or do we look for another?” (Matt 11:3). This question is not born of doubt but serves as a teaching moment for his followers. As St. Jerome notes:
“John did not ask out of ignorance but that his disciples, hearing the works of Christ, might believe in Him.”
Christ’s response, pointing to His works—healing the blind, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead—echoes the prophecies of Isaiah (Is 35:5-6, 61:1). These deeds manifest His identity as the Messiah. St. Gregory the Great observes:
“The miracles of Christ are signs not only of His divinity but also of His boundless compassion. In them, we see the restoration of creation itself, a foretaste of the Kingdom.”
John is then extolled by Christ as the “messenger” foretold in Malachi 3:1, preparing the way for the Savior. His role is unique, bridging the Old and New Testaments. Yet, Jesus’ assertion that “the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he” (Matt 11:11) invites us to reflect on the surpassing grace given to those who live in the fullness of Christ’s redemptive work.
Advent Lessons from the Fathers
As we reflect on these readings, we are called to embody the virtues of hope, unity, and joy. The Church Fathers emphasize that Advent is a time to prepare our hearts, not only for the celebration of Christmas but also for the final coming of Christ. St. Cyril of Jerusalem exhorts us:
“Let us make ready our souls as clean and white garments, fitting for the King’s arrival.”
The examples of St. John the Baptist and the Gentiles remind us that the promises of God extend to all, but they require our response of faith. This response is not passive; it demands active participation in works of charity, prayer, and the sacraments.
St. Bernard of Clairvaux offers a poignant meditation:
“The coming of the Lord is threefold: in the flesh, in our souls, and in glory. In the first, He came in weakness; in the second, He comes in spirit and power; in the third, He will come in majesty. The first has already happened, the second is happening now, and the third we eagerly await.”
A Closing Prayer
As we approach the midpoint of Advent, let us implore the Lord to strengthen our hope, unify our hearts, and enkindle in us a deeper longing for His presence.
Come, O Root of Jesse, set us free from the snares of sin. Teach us to live in the joy of Your coming and to proclaim Your glory to the nations. Amen.