When Change Becomes Grace

When Change Becomes Grace

Sunday Sermon – St. Sarkis Church, Advent Season

In this week’s Advent sermon, Fr. Nareg reflects on Jesus’ powerful call to repentance from the Gospel of Luke.

Through two striking examples, human evil and natural disaster, Jesus reminds us of a profound truth: we live in a world of suffering and brokenness, but our response must be one of repentance, renewal, and purposeful change.

Fr. Nareg unpacks the parable of the barren fig tree, revealing how God’s justice and mercy work together. God is patient and grants us another chance, but He also calls us to urgency.

True repentance is more than modifying behavior; it is the movement of the heart toward a life that is fruitful, purposeful, and aligned with God’s grace.

Drawing from St. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians, we are invited to:

• Live to please God

• Practice self-control

• Love one another with sincerity

• Live quietly and mind our own path

Fr. Nareg also speaks to the deeper sacramental dimension of repentance; how in penance, God heals our wounds, restores us, and makes us whole.

As we continue our journey through Advent, amidst the noise of holiday preparations, this message calls us to pause, look within, and ask: What needs to change in my life? And how can I invite God to work in me so that I may bear good fruit?

Join us in this spiritual journey toward renewal and grace.