November 27, 2022, FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT-A

Isaiah 2:1-5

Psalm 122

Romans 13:11-14

Matthew 24:37-44

…it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep.  Romans 14:11

“Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.”  Matthew 24:42

Lord, it seems we are always preparing for big times and events in life. It can be a vacation, a wedding, a career, or buying a house. As important as it is to prepare for these events how much more critical is it to prepare our spiritual lives for what will come. You and your apostle Paul urge us to make ready for our biggest day ever:  the day we meet you. Lord, I admit I have slept through many Advents by being preoccupied with the world’s view of Christmas. Don’t let me get sidetracked this Advent. I am broken and in need of healing. Help me to prepare to celebrate the day you came among us and to be ready for the day you come again. I do not know when I will take my last breath so guide me with your word to make this Advent the best ever. May I be alert to your grace and awake to your presence this Advent as if it will be my last. Keep my mind and heart focused on the hope that I’ll be ready for the life to come.  Amen.