Musings on the gospel of the First Sunday of Advent
(Mark 13:33-37), based on the model of Hildegard of Bingen
Jesus
said to his disciples: a circle of men and woman, Jesus
sitting with them; perhaps several concentric circles.
Be watchful! Be alert! St. Benedict would say “Ausculta! Listen!” I
often think of the German achtung! which very sound makes me sit taller.
You do not know when the time will come.
Should I fear as some in our culture preach or should I be joyful for the
kingdom is near?
It is like a man traveling abroad. Strangely, I never
wished to do that.
He leaves home and
places his servants in charge, each with his own work, Maybe because there
are too many preparations. Just leaving
town for the weekend carries its burdens.
and
orders the gatekeeper to be on the
watch. Let someone else carry the responsibilities. Perhaps the traveler is
someone else and I am the gatekeeper. Community calls forth many gifts.
Watch, therefore; That word is back
again. Are we slow at accepting the message; do I need to change some
behaviors?
you do not know when the lord of the house is coming, St. Benedict
bids us to welcome the guest as Christ and provides a porter to welcome the
guest.
whether in the evening, or at midnight, We don’t always get to pick
the time of interruptions or inconveniences.
or at cockcrow, Sorry, but I hate that sound.
or in the morning. May I welcome the day and praise God for the
opportunities it will bring.
May he not
come suddenly and find you sleeping.
Or find me reluctant to respond.
what
I say to you, I say to all: ’Watch!’’’ Thank God, we are in this together. .
Sr. Mary Rabe, OSB
