The First Sunday of Advent (Year B)

by Carolyn Tapel

GOSPEL: Mark 13: 33-37. Jesus said to his disciples, "Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Watch therefore---for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning---lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. And what I say to you I say to all: Watch." 

"Take heed; watch for you do not know when the timewill come."-Mark 13:33


In every celebration, we give time to prepare for it so we could make it a success. We even set aside other things to make the preparation something worthwhile and amazing. Today is the First Sunday of Advent. The word ‘advent’ comes from the Latin word 'Advenire', which means ‘coming’ or ‘arrival’. The Gospel exhorts us to be watchful for the Lord's coming. Be constantly on watch and stay awake!



Short Reflection:

Jesus invites us to be vigilant while waiting for His arrival. He says, "Take heed; watch for you do not know when the time will come."

How do we prepare ourselves for his coming?

(a) By staying awake.

(b) Being alert.

(c) Being watchful.

(d) By attending formations, retreats or recollecti0n and other Church activities.
(e) By praying always.

In every way and in every aspect of our lives, God manifests His unconditional love for all of us.


My Gospel reflection as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW):

As an OFW, there are lots of documents needed to be prepared, complete and fixed when we are applying for a job abroad. And it usually takes a long time to have your documents processed before you can submit them to the recruitment agency. There is a similarity between the procedures you have to go through during recruitment and what we celebrate today; the 1st Sunday of the Advent. Advent season is a time of intense preparation for Jesus' coming. We need to be prepared, alert and watchful always. For God will come to judge us according to our deeds.

Let's all pray and welcome Christ in our midst, let us make Advent a season of prayer and giving.