First Sunday of Advent November 30, 2003 Scripture: Jeremiah 33:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2; Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 Reflection: While Luke's Gospel resonates with admonitions to a people long past, there is a certain ring of familiarity with our country's current terror alerts, which caution us to be observant, to be aware of what is going on around us. The distinction is drawn, however, in our being encouraged to watch for signs of potential terrorism, to Luke's encouragement to watch for signs of our promised salvation. As the Gospel moves from fear to confidence, Luke advises: "There will be signs … Watch yourself … Stay awake … Pray at all times … Stand with confidence …" At some point in our lives, most of us have had the experience of getting lost on a road trip because we "missed the sign." As we prepare for Christmas, with all of its busyness, we need to make a conscious effort to "stay awake" and not miss the signs of God's redemptive love all around us. Richard Rohr put it so succinctly when he wrote: "Grace comes when you stop being preoccupied." Suggested Action: Advent provides us with the wonderful opportunity to stop, to reflect, to wait patiently for the coming of the Lord. Let us try to be more aware of the incarnate God all around us. What preoccupations and distractions need to be eliminated from my daily routine to increase that awareness? Sr. Jane Ellis, IHM Woodhaven, New York