Today we begin the season of advent: a time of watchfulness, hope, and preparation. Isaiah had a vision of the nations streaming toward the mountain of the Lord. Advent is a season of pilgrimage: of walking in the light of the Lord. 
It is not just waiting, it is moving closer to God. St. Paul reminds us; “it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep”. 
Advent is our spiritual alarm clock. Too often we live drowsy lives, distracted, content with the darkness around us. Saint Paul calls us to cast off the works of darkness: sin, selfishness, indifference; 
and to put on the armour of light, Christ himself. In the Gospel reading, Jesus wants us to be ready, for he will come at an hour we do not expect. 
Like in the days of Noah, people lived ordinary lives, but only those who were watchful were saved. Advent teaches us that readiness is not fear: it is living daily in faith, hope, and love. 
So that when he comes, he will find us prepared.

PRAYER: Abba Father, awaken our hearts, and guide our steps. Amen.