December 2, 2018: First Sunday of Advent

Reading: Like 21:25-28; 34-36

Jesus 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.”

Reflection:

We certainly have many signs in nature and in our world today that give us pause and concern about the future. Jesus often talked about signs and Pope John XXIII in the Second Vatican Council urged us to “read the signs of the times.” Advent is a special season to open ourselves to the Lord’s coming into our lives and our world today. In order to do this, we must read the signs of our times.

Action:

As you go about your daily routine this week, look for signs of how God may be asking you to respond in a positive way to a family member, a global, national or local issue; to a neighbor, a co-worker or someone you pass on the street or in the grocery store. Perhaps your response will make a difference.