First Sunday of Advent encourages us to make room for the One who loves us extravagantly
by Sister Laura Zelten
We begin Advent with a call to prepare and to stay awake. We are called to be alive in God who is at work in our lives and to be ready to greet Jesus as he comes to us in every moment.
In Sunday’s first reading the prophet Isaiah yearns for the time when God will come to his people. He reminds us that we are all the work of God’s hand.
The Psalmist also longs for God’s help and care. We are encouraged to recognize how tender God’s love is for us – a love that became Incarnate, a light that shines upon us.
In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians we are reminded of the blessings we have received from God. It is God’s spirit that gives us hope as we wait for Christ coming again into our lives.
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus teaches us to be ready and alert for God. We have each been given a task, and Jesus wants us to be prepared to receive Him.
Throughout this Advent season, let us remember each other in prayer and ask for the grace to make time for silence and stillness. In the silence, let us watch and wait for the Lord.
Thanks, Sister Laura for the simple reminder to ‘stay awake.’ It is so easy to get caught up in the busyness of life or to go on ‘autopilot.’ This is an important and needed message. Peace to you for a blessed Advent!