St. Joseph's Catholic Church

December 3, 2023 Reflection

Welcome to Advent: A time to be Spiritually Awake

The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year, a time of anticipation and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth and the anticipation of His second coming. It’s a period of hope and expectation. This day calls us to reflect on hope, not just as a passive wish, but as an active and expectant trust in God’s promises. It’s an invitation to examine our hearts, to renew our faith, and to rekindle our hope in the midst of challenges and uncertainties. As we embark on this Advent journey, we’re reminded of the longing of ancient Israel for the Messiah and our own longing for Christ’s presence in our lives today.

This season prompts us to prepare ourselves spiritually, to create space for Christ in our hearts and minds, and to live in a way that reflects the hope and light that Christ brings to the world. It’s a time of joyful expectation and an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God as we await the coming of Christ, not just in history but in our lives each day.

In today’s Gospel taken from Mark 13:24-37, Jesus urges us to be watchful and prepared for His return. He emphasizes the importance of staying spiritually awake and alert, ensuring that we live faithfully, serving others, and remaining vigilant in our faith. Just as the master expects his servants to be watchful, Jesus urges us to be spiritually vigilant and ready for His second coming, which will arrive unexpectedly. This passage encourages us to live in a state of readiness, ensuring our hearts are aligned with God’s will at all times.