“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
Today’s Gospel passage from St. Luke reminds us to be vigilant at all times, especially amidst the “worries of this life.” As the 2018 liturgical year concludes today, we look back with gratitude on all the gifts and graces (and even the trials and challenges) of the past year. How has God’s grace come to me in recent weeks? Have I strengthened my relationships with family and good friends? Where have I noticed God’s guiding presence within my daily routine?
Spend some extra time with the Lord this weekend of transition. Give thanks to God for all that has been. As we celebrate the first Sunday of Advent tomorrow, beg God’s grace for all that is still to come.
—The Jesuit Prayer team at St. Camillus
Glory be to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.
Amen
—Traditional prayer
