The theme of vigilance is being struck again this week. It’s good to become alert and aware of what’s percolating inside at this turbulent time of endings and new beginnings.

As Advent begins, moments of inner preparation are important. Give yourself enough undistracted time to focus on how these Advent readings speak to your heart.

It’s no accident that when Jesus was born he was placed in a food trough. He was sent to feed a hungry world.

We enter into a time of reckoning of sorts. The readings for this Sunday extol the fruits of a life of wisdom, issue a call to live awake and in the light, and warn us with the parable of the talents.

The tone of our readings takes a major shift this month as we move toward an ending and a new beginning.

Today’s reading is a difficult challenge to priests, deacons, anyone who preaches, and all church leaders.

Today’s message on the greatest commandment raises a question: Let’s assume for the moment that as a pastoral minister your “love of God” is well grounded.

Jesus snares the Pharisees in their own trap in today’s gospel with his brilliant teaching to “render unto Caesar . . . . ” Their hypocrisy is revealed for all to see.

Today’s gospel parable focuses on those who, for a variety of reasons, chose to ignore or reject the invitation to a wedding banquet.

Today’s parable of the wicked tenants highlights the mistreatment and rejection that the messengers of God receive at the hands of those to whom they are sent.