In this homily, Fr. Frank Brennan reflects on the second Sunday of Advent in 2025, drawing from various biblical passages and historical events. He begins by sharing his thoughts from a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where he attended a mass on the feast of Christ the King, a day marked by discussions about global issues like President Trump, Gaza, Ukraine, and Taiwan. Brennan's attention turns to a powerful observation from the second reading, Paul's letter to the Colossians, which emphasizes the idea that 'He exists before all things, and in him all things hold together.' This concept, Brennan argues, is a source of hope for believers, suggesting that in Jesus Christ, all things are united and held together. He then shifts to a Thanksgiving Day mass in California, where he reflects on the importance of commitment to the truth and the fundamental dignity of every human person before God, as expressed by Pope Leo. The homily continues with a deep dive into the first reading from the prophet Isaiah, where the chosen people have suffered at the hands of the Assyrians. Despite the devastation, there is a promise of a new leader, a descendant of Jesse, who will bring wisdom, understanding, and a commitment to truth and justice. This leader embodies the seven gifts of the sacrament of Confirmation, and Brennan encourages his audience to envision a world where all things hold together, where peace and justice prevail. The vision of Isaiah, Brennan notes, is a long way off, but it serves as a guiding light in the present darkness. He invites his listeners to join in this hope, especially those busy with holiday shopping, urging them to prepare for Christmas with joy and anticipation. The homily concludes with a powerful image from Isaiah, describing a harmonious world where animals and humans coexist peacefully, and the earth is filled with the knowledge of the Lord. This vision, Brennan asserts, is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the midst of our troubles, we can find sustenance and strength in the ideal world envisioned by the prophet.
