2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
Sunday December 7, 2025
Mass Readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
- First Reading – Isaiah 11:1-10: The branch from Jesse brings justice and peace, uniting the world under God’s spirit. Nature is restored, and the earth is filled with the knowledge of the Lord.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 72: The king will rule with justice and fairness, bringing lasting peace. He will help the poor and needy. His name will be blessed forever, and all nations will find joy in him.
- Second Reading – Romans 15:4-9: The Scriptures teach us endurance and hope. God helps us to live in harmony and glorify Him together. Christ serves Jews and Gentiles, confirming God’s promises and mercy.
- Gospel – Matthew 3:1-12: John the Baptist preached repentance in Judea. He baptized many in the Jordan, warning Pharisees and Sadducees to produce good fruit. He announced one mightier who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Upcoming dates: December 7, 2025, December 10, 2028, December 7, 2031
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!
Matthew 3:2
Themes for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A focuses on preparing for Christ’s coming. It invites us to reflect on hope, repentance, and God’s promises.
- Hope and Expectation: Isaiah speaks of a future leader bringing peace and justice. This reminds us to hope for God’s kingdom and trust in His promises.
- Repentance and Conversion: John the Baptist calls for repentance. Advent encourages us to change our hearts and live better lives.
- Harmony and Unity: Paul urges harmony among believers. This reflects the call to live in peace with others as we wait for Christ.
- God’s Faithfulness: Paul shows how Christ fulfills God’s promises. This reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His people.
- Judgment and Accountability: John warns of judgment for those who do not bear good fruit. This challenges us to examine our actions and live faithfully.
- Preparation for Christ: John prepares the way for Jesus. Advent invites us to prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A encourages reflection and readiness. It reminds us to live with hope, repentance, and unity as we await the Savior.
Resources for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
Sunday December 7, 2025
Cry Out – A Lesson Plan on St. John the Baptist
The Gospel for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A introduces John the Baptist as a voice calling people to prepare for Jesus. John was bold and fearless, preaching repentance and urging people to change their hearts. He called them to turn away from sin and get ready for the Savior. His courage and mission show us the importance of being brave about our faith.
Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, we are also called to point others to Christ. We don’t need to live in the desert or wear strange clothes, but we do need to be bold. This means standing up for what is right and sharing our faith with others. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us that God has a purpose for each of us. Like John, we can help others be ready to meet Jesus.
Litany of St. John the Baptist
The Gospel for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A introduces John the Baptist as the voice preparing the way for Jesus. The Litany of Saint John the Baptist reminds us of his courage, humility, and dedication. He called for repentance and pointed to Christ as the Lamb of God. This prayer helps us reflect on his mission and challenges us to follow his example.
By praying the Litany, we ask for St. John’s help to grow in faith and courage. Just as he boldly spoke the truth, we are called to be witnesses for Christ. His example shows us how to live humbly, putting Jesus first. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A encourages us to prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming, inspired by John’s faithfulness and courage.
Resources and Lesson Plans for Advent
Advent is a season of preparation and hope as we await the coming of Jesus. It reminds us of His birth at Christmas and His future return. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect on John the Baptist’s call to repentance. Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, Advent encourages us to prepare our hearts.
This season is a time for prayer, reflection, and acts of love. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A helps us focus on changing our lives to be ready for Christ. By turning away from sin and living with hope, we welcome Jesus into our hearts. Advent reminds us that waiting is not passive but active and joyful, filled with expectation and faith.
Some ideas specifically for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A are shown below. See even more ideas to start Advent well here.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
Sunday December 7, 2025
Go Meet John the Baptist
In his homily for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on John the Baptist as a key Advent figure. He invites us to imagine John’s image from the Chartres Cathedral, which captures a sense of longing and urgency. Bishop Barron explains that John appears in the desert, a place without distractions, where we face life’s big questions, including how we stand with God. Advent, like the desert, is a time to strip away diversions and reflect on our relationship with God.
Bishop Barron also highlights John’s call to repentance, urging us to change our minds and priorities. This repentance prepares us to see Jesus, the fulfillment of God’s kingdom. Barron compares this process to pruning and winnowing, where God removes what is unfruitful in us. He encourages us to go to confession, allowing God to cleanse and renew us during this Advent season.
Kingdom Come
In his commentary for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A, Scott Hahn explains that John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus, the righteous king foretold by Isaiah. Jesus is the Messiah, filled with the seven gifts of the Spirit, who will rule with justice and peace. His kingdom will reach all nations, fulfilling God’s promises to David and Abraham. Through Christ, all people, including the Gentiles, are invited into God’s covenant.
Scott Hahn also highlights how John’s message calls for repentance and a new identity as children of God. In the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A, this means becoming living stones in God’s kingdom, not by birthright but by the Spirit. This new baptism brings us into the Church and makes us heirs of God’s promises. Hahn shows how Advent prepares us to welcome Christ and join His kingdom.
Reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to prepare for Christ’s coming by reflecting on justice, repentance, and hope. The readings from Isaiah, Romans, and Matthew call us to change our hearts and look toward God’s promises. These reflections explore how we can live out these themes in our daily lives.
Justice and Peace for All
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A reminds us of God’s promise of justice and peace. Isaiah speaks of a leader from Jesse’s line who will rule with wisdom and fairness. This leader brings harmony, where even nature is at peace. It is a vision of a world guided by God’s spirit and filled with His knowledge.
This hope is not just about the future. It calls us to work for justice and peace now. Are we promoting fairness in our communities? Do we seek peace in our relationships? We are called to reflect God’s spirit in our actions.
Isaiah’s vision also challenges our view of leadership. True leaders promote justice and peace. They serve others with humility and wisdom. We should support leaders who seek the common good and act with integrity.
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect on the world we hope for and the role we play in it. By living justly and peacefully, we help bring God’s vision closer to reality.
Repentance and Renewal
John the Baptist calls for repentance in the Gospel for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A. People were drawn to his bold message and his fearless stand against hypocrisy. John challenged people to change their hearts and bear good fruit. Repentance was not just about feeling sorry but about changing one’s life.
This call to repentance is still relevant. It invites us to examine our actions and attitudes. Are we living as God calls us to? Are we helping others, or are we focused only on ourselves? Advent is a time to reflect and make changes.
John’s message also challenges how we view religious identity. He told people that ancestry and status did not matter if they did not bear good fruit. What matters is how we live our faith. This challenges us to go beyond words and show our faith through actions.
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to prepare for Christ by changing our hearts and lives. True repentance brings renewal and helps us grow closer to God.
Hope and Leadership
Both Isaiah and John the Baptist speak about leaders who guide people toward God. Isaiah describes a leader who rules with justice and wisdom. John prepares the way for Jesus, who will lead with mercy and truth. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A shows us the kind of leadership that brings hope.
We all follow someone, whether in politics, community, or even within our families. Are the leaders we follow promoting peace and justice? If not, we may need to reconsider who we listen to. True leaders work for the good of all people.
Isaiah’s vision also points to Jesus as the ultimate leader who fulfills God’s promise of peace. He is the model of selfless leadership. By following Jesus, we find true hope and direction.
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect on who leads us and how we lead others. It calls us to seek leaders who bring hope and justice and to be leaders who reflect God’s love and mercy.
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A encourages us to prepare our hearts and follow Christ more closely. By seeking justice, repenting, and choosing the right leaders, we help bring God’s peace into the world. May these reflections inspire us to live faithfully and with hope.
Prayer
Lord, help us to prepare our hearts for Your coming. Guide us to live with justice, peace, and repentance. Give us courage to follow true leaders and to be leaders who bring hope. May we bear good fruit and reflect Your love in all we do. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
- How can I work for justice and peace in my community?
- What areas of my life need repentance and renewal?
- How do my actions reflect my faith?
- Who are the leaders I follow, and do they promote peace and justice?
- In what ways can I be a better leader to others?
- How does Isaiah’s vision of harmony inspire me today?
- What changes can I make to bear good fruit in my life?
- How can I live in hope and trust in God’s promises?
- What steps can I take to live in harmony with others?
- How can I prepare my heart for Christ this Advent?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
Music Suggestions for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
Sunday December 7, 2025
Music for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A can help us reflect on themes of hope, repentance, and preparation. Songs that call us to “prepare the way” echo John the Baptist’s message of repentance. Hymns about waiting and watching remind us of the hopeful anticipation of Christ’s coming. Music that celebrates justice and peace connects with Isaiah’s vision of a righteous king. These themes encourage us to prepare our hearts for Jesus and live with hope and faith.
- A Voice Cries Out by Michael Joncas
- All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name by by Shane & Shane
- Awake, O Sleeper by Ike Ndolo
- Change Our Hearts by Rory Cooney
- Come Alive / Dry Bones by Lauren Daigle
- Desert Song by by Brooke Ligertwood
- Gather Your People by Bob Hurd, Craig Kingsbury & Dominic MacAller
- Emmanuel by Steve Angrisano
- Every Valley by the St. Louis Jesuits
- Find Us Ready by Tom Booth
- Let the Valleys be Raised by Dan Schutte
- O Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Edwin Hatch
- On Jordan’s Bank
- People, Look East by Marty Haugen
- Prepare the Way by Passion
- Prepare the Way (Clear the Road)
- Prepare Ye by Lorraine Hess
- Psalm 72: Justice Shall Flourish by Rory Cooney
- Ready the Way by Curtis Stephan
- Seek the Lord by the St. Louis Jesuits
- Stay Awake by Christopher Walker
- There Is a Longing by Anne Quigley
- Wait for the Lord by Taizé
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A. Consider how these themes can inspire and uplift your congregation. Feel free to suggest other fitting songs or share your experiences in the comments. Let’s work together to make this Advent season meaningful through music.
Questions and Answers for 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A
What date is the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A?
The next date is Sunday December 7, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
2nd Sunday of Advent Year B
2nd Sunday of Advent Year C
What are the Mass readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A?
The Mass readings for Sunday December 7, 2025 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 11:1-10: A New Hope for the Nations
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 72: The Reign of Justice and Peace
Second Reading – Romans 15:4-9: Encouragement and Unity in Christ
Gospel – Matthew 3:1-12: John the Baptist’s Call to Repentance
What is the main message of the first reading for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A?
The first reading shows a future leader from Jesse’s line who will bring justice and peace. It gives hope for a world where God’s spirit brings harmony and understanding.
Why does Isaiah talk about animals living together?
This shows a vision of peace and safety. It means that God’s kingdom will bring harmony to all creation.
How does the first reading relate to Advent?
It points to the coming of Jesus as the promised leader. Advent is a time of waiting for Christ, who brings justice and peace.
What does Paul mean by endurance and hope in the second reading for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A?
Paul says the Scriptures help us be strong and hopeful. They teach us to trust in God’s promises, even in difficult times.
Why does Paul speak about harmony?
Paul wants believers to live in peace and unity. This reflects how Christ brings people together, which we remember in Advent.
How can we apply the second reading to our lives?
We can try to live in harmony with others. By being patient and forgiving, we follow Christ’s example of love and unity.
What is the focus of the Gospel reading for the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A?
The Gospel tells about John the Baptist calling people to repentance. He prepares the way for Jesus, teaching us to prepare our hearts for Christ.
Why does John the Baptist call for repentance?
John calls for change so people can receive Jesus with open hearts. Repentance means turning away from sin and living better lives.
What does it mean to bear good fruit?
It means showing good actions and attitudes. Our faith should be visible in how we live and treat others.
How does the 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A help us prepare for Christmas?
It reminds us to repent and seek peace with others. By reflecting on our lives and making changes, we get ready to welcome Christ.
Waiting with Hope and Renewal
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A focuses on hope, repentance, and preparation. The first reading from Isaiah speaks of a leader from Jesse’s line who will bring justice and peace. This promise gives hope for a world filled with God’s spirit and harmony.
In the second reading, Paul encourages believers to live in harmony and hope. He reminds them that Christ came to serve both Jews and Gentiles. This shows that God’s promises are for all people, calling us to live in peace with each other.
The Gospel tells about John the Baptist preaching repentance and preparing the way for Jesus. He calls people to change their hearts and live better lives. The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect, repent, and prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
Your Turn
The 2nd Sunday of Advent Year A invites us to reflect on hope, repentance, and harmony. Take time to read the passages and think about how they speak to you. Consider how you can prepare your heart for Christ.
We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences. How do these readings inspire you this Advent? Share your reflections in the comment section and join the conversation.
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