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Advent always begins with a Gospel reading in which Jesus tells his listeners to be on guard, alert, and watchful. In that context, Jesus was referring to his Second Coming and the end of the world as we know it. The gospel writers and Jesus’ followers were certain Jesus meant this would happen in their lifetimes.
Two thousand years later, we don’t usually assume that the world will end at any moment, so what are we to be vigilant and on guard for?
We may not be worried about the apocalypse happening tomorrow, but we can still take Jesus’ words to heart because none of us know when we or our loved ones will die. Anyone who has ever received the news of a frightening medical diagnosis or had a friend or relative receive one will recognise how quickly it can change our perspective. Unimportant things that we spent our time on suddenly don’t seem very important in light of the love we want to give and receive before death occurs.
If our hearts are confused with distractions (read: wasting time on social media, watching TV, overeating or drinking, or generally spending our days doing less-than-meaningful things), Jesus wants us to reevaluate how we spend our time. There are children to read to and tuck into bed, aging parents and relatives who long for our companionship, friends to re -connect with, grudges and past hurts to be reconciled. Hungry people need food today, homeless men and women are longing for respect and dignity, and sick and lonely people need someone to reach out to them. How would Jesus want us to spend our time if we were to die tomorrow? Let’s be alert to that.
Questions of the week
In what ways have you slipped into “drowsiness,” distraction, or a pattern of wasting time on unimportant matters which you would like to change?
What do you want to be more vigilant about this upcoming week? How do you think Jesus is inviting you to spend your valuable time and energy?