First reading
Isaiah 2:1–5
The Lord gathers all nations together into the eternal peace of God’s kingdom.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 121(122):1–2, 4–5, 6–9
R. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Second reading
Romans 13:11–14
Our salvation is near.
Gospel acclamation
Psalm 84:8
Lord, show us your mercy and love, and grant us your salvation.
Gospel
Matthew 24:37–44
The Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Images from the Word
- Until the flood came
- Stay awake
- Be prepared
- Walk in his paths
- Awake from sleep
Liturgical notes
For Sundays in Advent,
each Gospel reading has a distinctive theme: the Lord’s coming at the end of time (First Sunday of Advent), John the Baptist (Second and Third Sunday), and the events that prepared immediately for the Lord’s birth (Fourth Sunday). The Old Testament readings are prophecies about the Messiah and the Messianic age, especially from Isaiah. The readings from an apostle serve as exhortations and as proclamations, in keeping with the different themes of Advent.
—Lectionary for Mass: Introduction, §93
The Lectionary for Mass has been established with a very clear purpose. For this reason, it is important to use the readings assigned to each Sunday so that the wisdom of the Church may be maintained. During Advent, this will ensure a full understanding of what we are celebrating in this season.
‘To you, I lift up my soul, O my God. In you, I have trusted; let me not be put to shame. Nor let my enemies exult over me; and let none who hope in you be put to shame.’
—entrance antiphon