First Sunday of Advent
“I’m never getting enough rest! How can I possibly be ‘asleep’?” In a world of jam-packed schedules
and high anxiety levels, physical rest may be hard to come by. Yet relentless pursuit of our to-do lists
and social calendars may keep our minds off of the things that really matter. Jesus knows all too well a pattern of busy, harried ignorance. “In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage … they did not know until the flood came and carried them all away … two men will be out in the field … two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left.” When it comes to the spiritual life, we can be at work or at relaxation and still be spiritually asleep.
Each year, we are called back to remember the essential things. God comes to save His people. He becomes flesh to dwell among us. Supernatural light pierces the world’s darkness and our own. Advent wakes us up. “Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.” Every Advent, we prepare to celebrate Christ’s first coming at Christmas, and we anticipate his second coming at the end of time.
“At an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” There’s another hour, too, both known and unknown. It’s the present moment. Whether it’s a lazy Saturday morning or a major business proposal, whether it’s attending a kindergarten play or an elderly relative’s bedside, at every moment the Lord wants to enter into our hearts. This Advent, let’s pray for the grace to stay alert. Christ is coming soon!
This Week's Gospel Message
