November 27, 2016
By Betsy Meagher, CSJ
Nazareth, MI
Scripture
Is 2:1-5; Ps 122:1-9; Rom 13:11-14; Mt 24:37-44
Reflection
Come, let us climb the Lord’s mountain…
that he may instruct us in his ways,
and we may walk in his paths.
Let us walk in the light of the Lord! Is 2:3, 5
You know the time:
it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep. Rom13:11
Stay awake! …you must be prepared
for an hour you do not expect… Mt 24:44
And so our Advent journey begins anew! Hear and respond to the invitation to climb, walk, awaken and stay awake! These scriptures remind me that life is precious and there is no time to lose. We dare not waste our time, but pay attention. As the saying goes, “The day we are born is the day we begin our final journey home.” This message is meant to spur us on and not be a “downer.” “It is amazing that we are here,” wrote poet John O’Donohue. So much in this season is about being attentive. Quiet, deep reflection will allow spaciousness within for deeper Presence. This is being prepared. Then the deep love of Presence will shine forth even more. “You have gifts. The world needs your gifts,” says Greg Kimura in his poem “Cargo.” May this season help you awaken to your gifts and be generous.
Prayer
Let us go rejoicing to the house of God! Because of the gifts of
life I say, “Peace be within you!” May peace be within your
home, within your city and within all Peoples. Now I set my
sights on the journey that lies ahead. Let us go rejoicing to the
house of God!
Amen.
Personal Challenge
What amazes you? Be attentive to all
that comes your way and to those you meet. Be thankful.
Check back next Thursday for the Second Sunday of Advent reflection.
Courtesy of Ministry of the Arts
