“We must face the fact that certain attitudes deriving from the mentality of "this present world" can penetrate our lives if we are not vigilant.”

“It happened that a fire broke out backstage in a theater. The clown came out to inform the public. They thought it was a jest and applauded. He repeated his warning. They shouted even louder. So I think the world will come to an end amid the general applause from all the wits who believe that it is a joke.” ― Søren Kierkegaard: (1813 – 1855: was a Danish philosopher, theologian, & poet)

Gospel Text: (MK 13:33-37)

Jesus said to his disciples:
"Be watchful! Be alert!
You do not know when the time will come.
It is like a man traveling abroad.
He leaves home and places his servants in charge,
each with his own work,
and orders the gatekeeper to be on the watch.
Watch, therefore;
you do not know when the Lord of the house is coming,
whether in the evening, or at midnight,
or at cockcrow, or in the morning.
May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping.
What I say to you, I say to all: 'Watch!'"

As Advent begins we are forcefully exhorted, as we are each year, to stay awake and be ready! When we think about Jesus coming back at the end of time, we generally think it will be a long time from now and most of us don’t even consider that He could return during our lifetime. But you never know! He said that no one knows the day or the hour, so it is possible that we will see His return. If He comes back tomorrow, will we be ready?

Even if Jesus doesn’t come back for a very long time, today might be the day that you or I die. Are you ready to meet God? 

1) Begin and end your day in prayer, making time to listen, not just talk. Keep bringing your heart and thoughts back to the Lord throughout the day.

2) Read Scripture daily. Invite the Holy Spirit to teach and inspire you as you read. Be open and believe that God will speak to you through His Word.

3) Receive the Sacraments. Daily Mass is the greatest treasure we have as Catholics. Just as our physical bodies require food each day, our spirits need to be fed and nourished by Jesus in the Eucharist.

4) Go to Confession regularly (once a month)

5) Hold all things lightly. This world is passing away. Cling to things that will last forever.

In summary:

“Pray! Read the Bible! Confess your sins! Live in truth! Bring beauty and a positive spirit wherever you go! Jesus is Lord – and He alone can fill the center of our lives and our world with peace.”