Study:  Name a time when you had to be vigilant.  What gave you strength to remain alert, disciplined, and prepared?

Pray:  Is there something in your life that requires vigilance right now?  Pray for the strength to remain focused.

Serve:  Does someone in your life need support to remain vigilant?  How can you help them?

1st Sunday of Advent Readings

Fr. Andrew’s Homily Podcast

The Gospel reading paints a dark picture – filled with worry, anxiety, dismay, and fright.  It warns that some might foolishly respond with drunkenness, others by getting drowsy and paying no attention.  Here’s the proper approach:

“Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength” – Luke 21:36

Be vigilant.  But what does that mean?  Here are some key points:

• Alert: focused, paying attention, aware
• Disciplined: steadfast, consistent
• Prepared: ready, able to act instantly

The idea is that we are actively engaged in the present moment – watching and waiting – so that when the situation requires our effort we can swiftly give our best.  It takes a lot of energy, effort, and concentration…but then again, at stake is our preparation for the savior of the world.

So as we step into this Advent – where do you see the need for vigilance in your life?  Are there situations or relationships that require attention?  Are there details that need to be addressed?  If the Lord came today are we ready to greet him, or would we be caught unprepared?

This holy season provides us with the gift of time to become vigilant – alert, disciplined, and prepared for the Lord’s return.

Happy Advent!

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The image is from The Passion of the Christ – The Resurrection of Jesus – Easter Day.  May we all have that expression on our faces as we wait for the Lord!