Diapositive 1

Automatic

Advent 2014

First SundayWelcomehis benevolence

Be watchful and hopefulChrist will return to complete the work ofhis salvation. In the meantime, we are invitedto remember his kindness towards us.Although he seems to be delayed, we must be watchfuland be ready for his return.

This long prayer of supplicationevokes the fall of Jerusalem in 587.The people forced into exile imploretheir God to intervene in their favor.First ReadingIsaiah (63.16b-17;64.1,3-8)

This cry from the heartis a call to conversion,because it is up to the peopleto turn away from their infidelity.

In these few verses, the psalm immerses usin the history of the relationship between God and his people.Two important images appear:the one of the shepherd who guides his flock,and that of the winemaker whovisits his vineyard and protects it.The Lord is invited to act: Listen ... Awake ... Come Look and see.

Psalm 79

Paul calls for perseverancewhile awaiting the coming ofthe Lord.Second Reading1 Corinthians 1.3-9

The Apostle invites themto stand firm and resist the commonconventional wisdom that opposedthe folly of the cross.

Jesus calls his followers in confidenceand in attentivess.GospelMark 13.33-37

The gospel is a call to trust and, above all, to vigilance. The disciples must await the coming of the Lord like the servants who await the return of their Master, not knowing when this will happen.

Advent is a time to pull ourselves together,to renew our trustin the favor of the Lord.Advent, a time to be watchful

Let no one take away our hope! In his apostolic exhortation The joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis invites us to be watchful and hopeful.

In this season of Advent, let us rememberthat "no gift of grace is lacking"to hope and to ensure, to recognize and welcomeGod's benevolence.

PrayerLord, you are our Father and our Redeemer.No one has seen any other God than youact thus towards his people.During this time of Advent,permit us to let ourselves be shaped by you.We are the clay, you are the potter.We are the work of your hands.

Welcome hisBenevolence

Sisters Disciples of the Divine Master Canada