Bible/Liturgical Study - 1st Sunday of Advent - Traditional Latin MAss / 1962 Missal
Theme: Awake, O Man — Prepare for the Coming of Christ in Glory and in Grace
Readings (1962 Missal)
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14
Gospel: Luke 21:25–33
“Put On the Armor of Light”
I. Advent Begins at the End
In the Traditional Latin calendar, Advent begins with the Last Judgment.
The Church does not start with shepherds, angels, or mangers —
but with cosmic chaos and the return of the Son of Man.
This is deliberate.
It is theological.
It is ancient.
Advent is preparation for both comings of Christ:
His first in humility, and His second in glory.
II. Epistle: Romans 13:11–14 — Augustine’s Conversion Gospel
This reading is the spiritual earthquake that converted St. Augustine.
As he heard it read aloud, grace pierced his heart.
“It is now the hour to awake from sleep.”
“Cast off the works of darkness.”
“Put on the armor of light.”
“Put on the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Theology of the Passage
The Christian is a soldier at dawn.
The darkness is passing.
Christ is near.
Therefore:
reject sin,
reject complacency,
reject mediocrity,
embrace holiness,
embrace reverence,
embrace vigilance.
Traditional Advent is morally demanding —
because love demands preparation.
A soul that expects the King does not tolerate the filth of sin or the sloppiness of irreverence.
III. Gospel: Luke 21:25–33 — “When These Things Happen, Look Up”
Jesus describes the end of the world in apocalyptic imagery:
cosmic signs
the shaking of the nations
fear in the hearts of men
the powers of heaven shaken
Then comes the command:
“When these things begin to come to pass, look up and lift up your heads, for your redemption is at hand.”
This is the heart of Traditional Advent:
the fearless posture of the faithful.
The world collapses;
the believer stands upright,
unafraid,
renewed in hope.
Christ will not abandon His own.
IV. The Liturgical Spirit of TLM Advent
Traditional Advent is:
Penitential
Quiet
Sober
Prophetic
Eschatological
Hopeful
Reverent
No Gloria is sung.
The altar is simple.
Chant is restrained.
The faithful are urged to fast, confess, and pray.
Why?
Because the King is coming —
and love wants to be ready.
V. Zeal for Reverence Is Charity
A soul that is awake cannot abide irreverence in God’s house.
This is not pride.
This is love defending Majesty.
If Christ is coming in glory,
how can His people worship with casual music, sloppy posture, or apathetic faith?
The woman in the Gospel who touched Christ’s garment trembled.
How much more should we tremble before His Eucharistic Presence?
Advent purifies our worship because it purifies our love.
VI. Practical Traditional Advent
Attend a Rorate Caeli candle Mass if possible.
Go to Confession in the first week.
Begin daily spiritual reading (Scripture or the Fathers).
Pray the Angelus faithfully.
Practice Advent fasting twice a week.
Prepare your home shrine or prayer corner.
Insist on reverence when you worship — charity demands it.
VII. Conclusion — The Four Comings of Christ
Traditional theology teaches four Advents:
In the flesh in Bethlehem
In the soul through grace
In the Eucharist at every Mass
In glory at the end of time
The First Sunday of Advent prepares us for all four.
It shouts across the centuries:
“Be ready. Wake up. Put on Christ.”
The one who watches faithfully will greet the returning King not with fear
but with joy.