⇐ Year B - First Sunday of Advent ⇒


The Windstorm
Antônio Parreiras, 1888

My dear friends,

On this first Sunday of Advent, let us explore the teachings of Mark 13:31-37 through the lens of the Bodhisattva path of spiritual growth, a journey not of solitary enlightenment, but of collective salvation, where the enlightenment of one is intertwined with the liberation of all beings.

"Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away."
- Mark 13:31

These words, when read in conjunction with Buddha's Warning Label, underscore the necessity of discerning wisdom, urging us to embrace teachings that stand the test of time and personal experience, guiding us towards altruistic actions for the benefit of all beings.

"But about that day or hour no one knows,
neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son,
but only the Father.
Beware, keep alert;
for you do not know when the time will come."
- Mark 13:32-33

This passage invites us to constant mindfulness and readiness, principles central to the path. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment with an awareness and preparedness for compassionate action, without attachment to specific outcomes or times.

"It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge,
each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch.
Therefore, keep awake--for you do not know when the master of the house will come,
in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn,
or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly."
- Mark 13:34-36

This metaphor speaks to the vigilance required on the spiritual path, the need for continuous effort in cultivating Bodhicitta, the mind of enlightenment, ready to respond to the needs of others at any moment, recognizing that opportunities to serve and to practice compassion are both fleeting and unpredictable.

"And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."
- Mark 13:37

To "keep awake" is a universal call to spiritual awakening, urging us to remain conscious of our innate potential for wisdom and compassion. On the Bodhisattva path, this vigilance is directed towards the liberation of all beings, maintaining a state of readiness to act for their benefit, embodying the altruistic intention that defines the path.

As we contemplate these teachings, let us embrace the message of vigilance, readiness, and compassion they convey. May we find in them the inspiration to advance on our path, keeping our hearts and minds awake to the needs of all beings, and steadfast in our pursuit of collective enlightenment.