1. Readings
First Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24 – “But a very little while, and Lebanon shall be changed into an orchard…” Catholic Gallery+2Potty Padre+2
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27:1, 4, 13-14 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Catholic Gallery+1
Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31 – Two blind men followed Jesus, calling, “Son of David, have mercy on us!”… “According to your faith let it be done to you.” ePriest+2Potty Padre+2
Source links:
– Daily readings schedule: “Download Mass Readings – December 2025” listing. Catholic Gallery
– Commentary on Gospel reading. Living Space+1
2. Opening Prayer
Lord God,
you make the eyes of the blind to see and raise up the lowly from the dust;
open our hearts this Advent season to your presence,
that with faith we may call on you and trust in your saving power.
Grant that, following Christ our Saviour, we may live in hope and joy, now and always.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
3. Reflection / Explanation
First Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24
This passage looks forward to a transformation: what is broken or “little” (Lebanon) will become an orchard; the blind, the deaf, the humble will rejoice. It is a prophecy of restoration and renewal. In Advent, we hear this as a call that the Lord is coming — not just to come in history, but to work in hearts: to overcome what blinds or deafens us spiritually, to bring new sight and hearing in faith.
Psalm 27:1,4,13-14
“The Lord is my light and salvation; whom shall I fear?” Here the psalmist expresses confidence in God’s presence and help. The joyful verse “One thing I ask of the Lord … to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” (v 4) echoes the desire for closeness to God. In Advent we wait and hope — this psalm invites us to trust even amid darkness.
Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31
Here two blind men call out to Jesus: “Son of David, have pity on us!” They recognise his Messiah-ship and cry for mercy. Jesus asks: “Do you believe that I can do this?” They answer: “Yes, Lord.” Then Jesus heals them: “According to your faith let it be done to you.” Their faith leads to healing; then they go out and spread the news (even though Jesus told them to keep quiet). This shows that encountering Christ brings transformation AND mission.
In the context of Advent, their waiting and believing mirrors our own waiting for the Lord’s coming: first in the manger, then in glory, and now in our lives. We are challenged to open our eyes and ears, to believe and act.
4. Application for Catholics and Catechumens
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For Catholics: This Advent day invites you to examine what “blinds” you — whether sin, distraction, fear, or complacency. Ask: Do I really believe that Jesus can heal, transform, renew me? How does my faith show itself in action? The blind men not only received sight—they went out and proclaimed the news. Consider how you might be a witness in your parish, your community in Singapore, especially during this season of preparation.
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For Catechumens: You are preparing to enter fully into the Church’s life. Reflect on the question Jesus asked: “Do you believe I can do this?” Your journey is that answer: “Yes, Lord.” Be open to allowing Christ to heal your spiritual blindness (whatever that may be)—doubt, fear, lack of knowledge—and prepare to go forth, once you receive the sacraments, to live and share the faith you’ve been given.
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In everyday life: In our busy Singapore context—work, study, traffic, social media—Advent can easily become another “busy season.” Instead, take this reading as an invitation: step aside, quiet your heart, call on Jesus with faith. Let your faith lead to concrete small acts of mercy: helping someone who is lonely, being patient in heavy traffic, giving time to listen. These are ways of “opening the eyes” of those around you.
5. Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ,
you asked the blind men: “Do you believe that I can do this?”
Help us to answer you with faith: “Yes, Lord.”
Open our eyes to your presence, strengthen our hearts for action,
that we may walk in your light and serve you with gladness.
As we await your coming in glory and remember your coming in humility,
may your Spirit prepare us to be your witnesses in Singapore and beyond.
We ask this through the same Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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