When will we get back to normal?  This is a common question as the covid pandemic rages on, especially this week of Thanksgiving, in the U.S., when many normal traditions were suspended out of care and concern for the safety of loved ones.   While it can be hard to gain perspective on a situation when we are in the middle of trying to get through the day, Advent is the perfect time to do so.

To gain some perspective, we have to look no farther than today’s gospel from Luke.  Jesus tells his disciples:

“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy
from carousing and drunkenness
and the anxieties of daily life,
and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.
For that day will assault everyone
who lives on the face of the earth.
Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength
to escape the tribulations that are imminent
and to stand before the Son of Man.”

It seems that generally this time of year there is much more focus on the amount of dollars and effort spent on Black Friday shopping rather than how we can be preparing our hearts for the season of Advent.  Jesus warns to not let our hearts become drowsy.  The sources of anxiety are plentiful as we collectively worry about health, finances, identity, safety and quality of life.  While these worries are very real and important, they distract us from trusting in God.

As I pray with today’s gospel I feel a sense of calm come over me.  Although I have allowed myself to be distracted by the anxieties of daily life, I am invited to shift my attention away from anxious thoughts and feelings.   This is the time to create a new normal. The covid pandemic has provided an opportunity to appreciate what is important in life, how we can connect with one another in more meaningful ways and what attractions, habits and behaviors we should turn away from. 

The year 2020 has been a year with events that few of us have experienced in our lifetimes.  This reminder from Jesus to be vigilant at all times helps frame my hopes for Advent and for the future.  I pray that I stay centered through prayer.  I ask for God to help me quiet my mind when my thoughts are swirling with daily frustrations and worries.  I look for simple ways to be present to others.  Embracing a quiet, peaceful, prayerful Advent will be a wonderful new normal.