"Pure Diligence"

Today we enter into a new liturgical year with the season of Advent. We enjoy the season because we know what's next after Advent. Some say, "Christmas is in the air." For most people it's a joyous anticipation that something wonderful is coming. Advent gives us the opportunity to renew our zeal. During this time, we clothe ourselves with joy for lots of reasons. There is excitement in everyone's heart! We cannot put aside our eager anticipation - but also the need for preparation. We are called, therefore, to stay on watch and prepare at all times.

The Gospel today is concerning the day of Christ's second coming. Regarding this, we do not know exactly when it will be. What should we be doing while waiting for His return? He has left His church in charge. How should we conduct ourselves? Mark 13:35-37 says, 'Therefore, be on the alert for you do not know when the master of the house is coming, whether in the evening, at midnight or when the rooster crows or in the morning -- in case he should come suddenly and find you asleep. What I say to you I say to all, "Be on the alert!"'

In the company or office where employees are working, how do they move if the big boss is there? And how do they conduct themselves if the boss is absent? You will see a marked difference, right? When the boss has left for a while, you know he will be back again, but you do not know the exact time. If we are the one in charge, are we going to be complacent? Of course not! We have to do the right thing. We must do our tasks or jobs well, even if the boss is not around. It is proper that we do our duties and responsibilities carefully so that whenour boss returns, we will be ready to show what we've accomplished in diligence and love.

As Christians, we should live our lives in such a way that if Jesus Christ returns even tonight or tomorrow, He will find us ready for His arrival. None of us should be treating others indifferently or stealing or having a bad attitude. As a church, we must hold on together. Jesus must not catch us off our guard. Instead, we should be living lives of peace, with love and joy, regardless of our situations. We should feel inwardly contented because we are loved and accepted into God's own family. We have to give our best, and be diligent and persistent workers that bring honor and glory to the Lord. I hope and pray that our Lord Jesus Christ will find us all ready while we await His coming.