On a bright Spring morning, a passerby once saw St. Francis of Assisi hoeing a row of beans and asked him, “What would you be doing right now if you knew this was the last day of your earthly life?” The Saint responded, “I’d keep hoeing this row of beans.” Preparing for this world to end — whether by our death or by Jesus’ glorious coming — invites us to live not in the past or the present, but deeply in the present moment. This same point is on display in the simple advice given by the wild and eccentric John the Baptist. He speaks of the one who is to come who will baptize “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Luke 3:16). Despite the bizarre awesomeness of this announcement, he tells his listeners to engage in the present moment with simple acts of justice and love as their preparation for Jesus’ coming, sharing their clothes and food, eliminating greedy and underhanded practices, being content with their wages. It’s so undramatic. But how many actually did it? We don’t know. How many of us will commit ourselves to these types of humble and demanding practices in our lives? That’s what we should be doing now in our present moment, not worrying about the future. Advent challenge: Name one way you are doing the bare minimum towards others in your daily life. Or name something you are doing because you are not content with your financial situation. Pray: “Jesus, if it is your will, help me to stop doing these things this week. Help me prepare for your coming.” Then make the appropriate changes. — Father John Muir ©LPI
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