We Have Authority Over Unclean Spirits.

The readings today remind us that Advent is not only a season of waiting—it is a season of awakening to the power God has entrusted to us. Isaiah proclaims a God who hears the cry of His people: “He will be gracious… He will answer you… Your ears shall hear a word behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.” This is a God who does not remain distant but walks with His people, guiding, healing, and restoring. Isaiah promises that God will send rain to the land, light to the darkness, healing to the wounded, and hope to the weary. In other words, where God’s presence is welcomed, life begins to flourish again. This is the foundation of our authority as disciples—not our strength, but His presence working through us. In the Gospel, Jesus walks through towns and villages teaching, healing, and proclaiming the kingdom. But then something remarkable happens: He turns to His disciples and gives them the same authority He Himself carries. Matthew tells us: “He gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and illness.” This is a real participation in the mission of Christ. And He sends them out with a mandate: “Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” We often think of “unclean spirits” as something far removed from our daily lives. But unclean spirits show up today in very real forms: • the spirit of fear that paralyzes us • the spirit of discouragement that whispers failure • the spirit of division that breaks families and friendships • the spirit of addiction, anger, shame, or hopelessness • the spirit of injustice that oppresses the poor • the spirit of self-hatred that blinds people to their dignity Jesus entrusts us with authority over these realities—not to dominate, but to liberate; not to destroy, but to heal. The authority of a Christian is not arrogance. It is compassion in action. It is the courage to confront darkness with the light of Christ. In Advent, Christ does not only come to console us—He comes to empower us. He wants disciples who step into the broken places of the world with confidence, knowing that God’s grace is stronger than any darkness. Today, let us ask the Lord to renew our authority—to speak truth, to heal wounds, to break chains, and to bring joy where there is despair. We have authority over unclean spirits because Christ dwells in us. May we use that authority with humility, courage, and love. Amen.