Christ, the Eschaton, and Watchfulness
Advent is a time of waiting and anticipation — both for the celebration of the coming of our savior at Christmas, but also for his return at the end of time. This focus on the eschaton (the return of Jesus Christ and the full inauguration of the Kingdom of God) is the focus of the Church's liturgy this week as we are reminded
You do not know when the Lord of the house is coming,
whether in the evening, or at midnight,
or at cockcrow, or in the morning.
May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping.
What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!’
(Mark 13:35-37)
This anticipation and watchfulness shouldn't just characterize our observance of Advent, but should permeate our lives as disciples. When Christ returns we must be prepared and not be too focused on our own designs, or else we may be passed by.
Advent should cause us to ask how many opportunities we’ve missed because we were too intent on our own schemes — how many opportunities to evangelize or help someone in need escape our notice because we can't be bothered to put aside our own ideas and ambitions. If we can’t be prepared for these intrusions, how will we be prepared for Christ’s triumphant return?
As we begin this new liturgical year I am going to recommit myself to “watchful anticipation” and awareness that opportunities are always right around the corner. Hopefully, by practicing this in everyday life, I’ll be ready to give an accounting when Christ returns and asks me how I’ve been spending my time!
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