Today is not only the First Sunday in Advent but also the commemoration of St. Andrew, whose day governs the start of Advent. In this way, Andrew continues to point to Christ as we begin a new Church Year. How odd it is, then, that the Gospel for the First Sunday in Advent is the same as the Gospel for Palm Sunday! This reminds us that Jesus came for the cross and the empty tomb, and this is the only Gospel that can save us from sin and death. The cry of Advent is “prepare the way of the Lord.” We will echo the words of John the Baptist, heralding Christ’s coming. We will join in the chant of the crowd: “Hosanna to the Son of David!” (Matthew 21:9). We will hear Him speak to us through the voice of His Word. We will feast upon His flesh for the life of the world and His blood that cleanses us from all sin. In all our preparations, we acclaim Him as Lord and receive Him and all His benefits.