This elderly couple was getting into bed one cold winter night when the newscaster announced that a huge blizzard was on its way and that all cars had to be parked on the even side of the street. So the old man gets up, dresses and goes out and moves his car to the even side of the street.

About a week later, the same scenario happens, but this time the message is to park cars on the odd numbered side of the street. So the old man once again gets dressed and complies with the order.

Another week passes and the same scenario yet again but cars have to be parked on the even side this time. As the old man starts to get out of bed his wife turns to him and says: Why don’t you just leave it in the garage tonight.

That’s what can happen when you take the message too literally – you miss the whole point. And the same goes for reading the scriptures and likewise missing the message.

Today on this First Sunday in Advent, we have two readings that are a good example of that. The first reading from Isaiah the prophet is part of his vision of the coming kingdom of God – a kingdom of peace and harmony for all nations. The message of this reading is not so much about peace as it is a message of hope. Isaiah is imparting the hope that there is a better life ahead for those who believe; that God will provide for all His people on the mountain of the Lord; that this is the promise God makes with his covenant relationship.

The gospel reading today is not about violence and destruction. Jesus is urging the people to be prepared and to wait expectantly for His second coming at the end of time. He emphasizes that no one knows when that will be, so all the more reason to be alert and to be expectant.

This is the message which sets the tone for this Advent season we move into today. We may know how many more days til Christmas, but we don’t know when the Lord will choose to enter into our daily lives. WE know from His promise that He will come to us, and that brings us hope. But these weeks are a time of watchful waiting and anticipation.

And so we pray: Maranatha: Come Lord Jesus Come!