Be Alert!

This coming week-end is the First Sunday of Advent.

Advent is the time of expectant watching and waiting for the coming of Jesus (his birth). In our church we have an Advent Wreath and each of the four Sundays of Advent, a family selected by the Pastor will read appropriate scripture and light the candle. It’s a special time as we prepare our hearts for the celebration of our Savior’s birth.

My Pastor is going to be away and I’ve been asked to share the message at Sunday worship this week.

Oh, my!

It’s not my first time being in the pulpit, but I’m always nervous. But, I believe the best way to face a challenge is to be prepared. So, this week, I’m praying and doing my homework.

Part of the scripture I’ll be sharing is from the Gospel of Mark. Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the signs of the end times.

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servant in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. Mark 35:32-34

Do you have a dog?

We do and she always seems to be alert. She lets us know when someone has arrived at our house. If she hears noises at night, she barks.

She’s watching.

She’s a good role model of how we should be alert.

Why does Jesus want us to keep watch?

Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back–whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!” Mark 13:35-37

The story Jesus is telling symbolizes His return. Our Lord is the Master. The servants represent the readers and hearers of the story (us).

One of the messages in this passage is that we we are to be alert–we need to be on guard against deception (anyone or anything that would separate us from God’s purpose for us).

The opposite of being alert is being asleep or lethargic. Jesus is encouraging his followers to be spiritually engaged.

We need to live as if Jesus were to return at any moment.

Another important message from Mark’s Gospel is that we are to be engaged in our assigned tasks. So, even as we wait upon our Lord, we are called to serve Him, to be an active, working Christian.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:15

Various sources offer multiple meanings for the symbolism of the Advent candles. As I read about this tradition, I found the meaning of the first candle to possibly be hope, forgiveness, and creation. All are of vital importance in our spiritual journey. You may have a different idea of the meaning of the candles–please share!

There are many actions we can do this Advent Season (and every day) to fulfill the tasks assigned to us as children of God. I pray that as we light the candle this first Sunday, that the Light of Jesus will shine through us this season and spread hope and love to all with whom we come in contact.

I’m still working on my message for Sunday. Your prayers are appreciated!

Praying for you, too, my friends!

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18