This is the first Sunday of Advent, which is about waiting for Christ to return. We don’t like waiting and society seems to have gotten worse at waiting. It’s worth considering how you use the time allotted to you presently. Advent is a good time to ask how the Lord would have us use our time.

Our text comes from Jesus’ response to a comment about the glory of the Temple. He privately tells four disciples that it will be destroyed and what else to expect in the years to come. Throughout Marks’ Gospel there is an implied question, asking the reader to become a disciple of Jesus. Advent is a good time to be intentional about discipleship.

Jesus is calling disciples while we await his return.

Discipleship is not automatic. It is a choice and requires effort in certain areas.

1. Learning to follow. Peter, James, John and Andrew were asking questions and receiving information and instruction from Jesus. He is teaching them how to follow in the days ahead.
2. Expecting conflict. Mark 13 is known as the “little apocalypse.” Jesus is using language like Daniel and Revelation to describe the cosmic conflict that his coming caused. It’s a clash of kingdom.
3. Avoiding spiritual sleepiness. Jesus tells them four times to stay awake. Complacency is easy when the waiting is long.
4. Receiving grace. Ironically, right after this teaching, the disciples are all found sleeping several times when Jesus asked them to watch and pray. Where we fail, Jesus remains steadfast. He has grace to work with sinners like us.

Taking It Home:  Advent is a penitential season in which we lament our failures and renew our commitment. Ask Jesus personally how he would like you to use Advent this year.