Despite how we often envision Advent and Christmas as a calm and peaceful season, John the Baptist brings a different idea to the coming of our Lord!  Out of the wilderness, dressed in camel's hair and a leather belt--and eating locusts and wild honey--he tells everyone listening that it is time to repent because the Lord is here.  For us, today, it is easy to misunderstand this call to repentance as simply offering a confession, asking for an apology from God, and then moving on with our lives, as if nothing happened.  But when we do that--we miss the real purpose of repentance, which really means to have a change in heart and mind.  We can take this time of preparation during Advent to really think about the ways we can make changes in our lives and in the lives of those around us.  But Remember, this isn't some resolution for the New Year!  God continually gives us the chance to make these changes--we don't have to quit if we mess up on January 3.

Each year, the first Sunday of Advent begins with an apocalyptic text from one of the Synoptic* Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).  This year, Year-A in the three-year lectionary, brings us Matthew's version of the importance of being watchful for the return of Christ.  A fascinating part of this passage is that it contradicts our commonly held beliefs of the "end times".  While the Left Behind series, and many others like it, point to a rapture of the faithful, Matthew tells us that the faithful will be the ones left behind to do the work necessary for bringing about God's Kingdom.  As we read these words, it is important to remember that living a faithful life should not be motivated by fear of judgment, but because we have been given the wonderful gift of a life in Christ.  Forget worrying about when the day will come.  Instead, let's focus on what Matthew is famous for telling us to do--feed the hungry, clothe the naked, care for the sick, and welcome the stranger.  When we stop worrying about the final days and stop acting out of fear, we will be able to open our hearts and live the grace-filled life God offers to each and every one of us.

*The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the synoptic Gospels because they include many of the same stories, often in a similar sequence and in similar or sometimes identical wording. They stand in contrast to John, whose content is largely distinct.  (SOURCE:  wikipedia.com)