First Sunday of Advent – Second reading 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 and Gospel reading Mark 13:33-37

The holidays are upon us, and what a fantastic set of readings to keep us centered. In the second reading, we are reminded that through the grace of God, we are “enriched in every way” and “not lacking in any spiritual gift.”  Let that sink in for a moment and think about what that means. If we allow it to, our relationship with Jesus has the potential to enrich us in EVERY way. In what we say, what we do, how we feel, how we love others, how we see the world… to make our experience of life the best and the fullest it can be. Additionally, we have access to every spiritual gift – the most powerful being the Eucharist – to bring us closer to Christ and strengthen us on our journey. Talk about the gift that keeps on giving.

Then in the Gospel, Jesus reminds his disciples to “Be watchful! Be alert!” and that “you do not know when the Lord of the house is coming… May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!'”

More than any other time of year, we absolutely need to be alert. If we are not ever-watchful, we will miss out on the world’s greatest gift – the only one that matters and the core of what we are celebrating. One gift – Christ – who encompasses so many brilliant little gifts that benefit every aspect of our lives. The person who humanizes God in ways that allow us to better know him, understand him, behold him, befriend him, and trust him. The light in the darkness. The life that conquered death. The love that never ends.

Distractions are abundant during the holidays. And if we are not paying attention, we will fall asleep spiritually. Don’t let the clutter keep you from seeing the truth of the season – the life-giving awareness of God at work in our lives. The Lord of the house IS here. Right now. It’s the best gift you’ll ever get. And he’s ready to go to work – bringing you freedom, love and the life you were meant to live. All you have to do is unwrap it.