December 3, 2017 FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT-B

Isaiah 63:16-17, 19; 64:2-7

Psalm 80

1 Corinthians 1:3-9

Mark 13:33-37

…you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait… 1 Cor 1:7

“Be watchful!  Be alert!”  Mk. 13:33

Lord, children eagerly await the joy and happiness of Christmas.  They have to wait however until the time of gifts and presents arrive.   But, in your goodness, O Lord, you have already given us everything we need to prepare for you.  You so dearly want to be close to us, to be near us, to be included in every moment of our lives.  You have already enriched us in every way necessary to live as your children.  We can celebrate your goodness in the Mass.  We can be inspired by your word and fed by your sacrament of love.  We have already been given the grace needed to serve you in our care for our brothers and sisters.  Lord, as I wait for you to reveal yourself to me, remove any obstacles or blindness I may have to your dream for me.  With your grace we can live like we’ve been saved–for so we have.  Dear Jesus, I am the glorious work of your hands.  I am waiting and watching for you to form me and mold me each day in Advent as I lift my heart and hands to you in prayer.  Amen.