Jeremiah 33:14-16
1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Each liturgical year we set aside four Sundays before Christmas as a time of preparation for the birth of Jesus. This feast of remembrance is significant because it reminds us that Jesus became one of us and experienced all the human feelings we experience. Pain and joy, love and derision. It is up to each of us to decide how we will prepare for Christmas, how to welcome Jesus into our hearts and minds in a special way once again. Will it only be a time shopping for gifts? Will we only prepare for visitors for Christmas dinner? Will we set aside some time each day to pray, reflect and perform certain actions that show our love for God and others?

The readings for this Sunday also remind us that there will be another coming of Jesus at the end time. In the gospelJesus said to his disciples:

There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.  And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

We know neither the day nor the time of the second coming but we are called to be ready. There will be no signs, no warnings. This reminds me of my own death. I know neither the day nor the time but I am called to be ready. That’s a daunting task. It means living each day as if it’s my last! You are called to the same reality. Advent is a good time to reflect on our mortality.

How will you use Advent as a time of growing closer to God, especially in welcoming Jesus in the Incarnation?

How do you keep your heart from becoming drowsy?