Gospel 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!’”
REFLECTION
‘Watch!’
Physician counseling is an important part of patient care. Sometimes the counselling includes spiritual and/or family life as they play an important part in the overall health of the patient. Many times poor choices, problems with family, the anxiety from broken relationships and even lack of prayer life are a source of medical problems not being well controlled. The doctor says "Watch out" for the traps of poor living, for the potholes of uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Be sufficiently prepared to avoid these problems.
Our Lord, the Master Physician, tells us over and over to be watchful. Spiritual health is needed when we are trapped inside the walls of our own sinful actions, thoughts and deeds. Listening to those who tell you the truth about yourself is a beginning of surrendering our wills to God. God has given us free will and our free choice can get us into heaven or hell.
Advent (from, "ad-venire" in Latin or "to come to") starts today. It begins a new liturgical year-- the new beginning with expectant joyful waiting and eagerness for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
I don't know about you, but with hurried anticipation, I find myself with busy preparation--buying presents, decorating the house, sending off Christmas cards, etc, etc, etc
With so much going on when and how do we have time to care for our souls?
How will I prepare my soul for His coming? He tells me to be watchful, vigilant and avoid being caught off guard when He comes. To be constantly attentive, alert and awake requires focused vigilance and watchfulness. There is no time to lose for my future is at hand.
I should be preparing for His coming more enthusiastically than the upcoming sales, shopping or that package that finally arrives at my front porch.
Jesus challenges us to change our ways, NOW. Advent is a time of prayer, penance and sacrifice. It is time to listen to Him, put our spiritual life in order, and be ready when the Master knocks at our door.
Why not stop this hurried pace and take time to join us at our Advent Retreat December 8-10, 2023. "The Seven ways to Excommunication". It's free, donations accepted. There will be time for daily confession, adoration, spiritual counseling and Mass with the retreat master, Father Michael Nguyen.
For more details, visit our website under PAPA Events at papamio.org.
God bless you
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