Our gospel reading this weekend begins with the words of Jesus, “Be watchful! Be Alert!” and ends with the single word, “Watch!”  There is a sense of urgency for us to be ready, to stay focused, to not take life for granted.  Advent is only four short weeks nestled into the busiest time of the year, and yet we are encouraged to slow down, pause, and prepare ourselves as we begin another year of faith.

Advent is not a time of waiting to welcome the child Jesus on Christmas morning, that already happened more than 2,000 years ago.  We are invited to prepare ourselves to better recognize our Emmanuel, “God is with us”, as we navigate the twists and turns of life, believing that God is with us every step of the way, offering love, forgiveness, and strength.

This year, the Worship Commission invites us to meditate upon the theme “Be not afraid, all is well” during Advent.  As we reflect upon how we lived our faith last year, we look forward to beginning a new year of faith, striving to better recognize Christ in our midst, celebrating the joy that God is with us.  No matter where we find ourselves, no matter what is happening in the world around us, we have nothing to fear because God is with us, giving us hope – All is well.

My friends, may we commit to letting go of the clutter we sometimes surround ourselves with, the unnecessary busyness that has a way of clouding our vision, sometimes preventing us from joyfully welcoming Christ in our midst.  May we stay alert and recognize the face of Jesus in the countless faces of those whom we encounter on life’s journey.

May God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forevermore.

Fr. Harry