“But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” Matthew 24:36 This Thursday we give thanks to our Creator for all the blessings and provisions in our life and celebrate with family and friends. And on Friday, the Christmas Shopping Season begins with all of it’s pressures. But this Sunday is also the beginning of Advent and the beginning of a new Church year (Last week’s five baptisms was a great New Year’s Eve party!). Advent is a time to quiet our souls, to deepen our faith, and to follow Jesus more nearly as we anticipate both His birth and glorious return. We look forward to celebrating the Incarnation at Christmas, but our readings also look forward to the second coming of Christ which will come at an unexpected hour. How do we hold on to Advent in the midst of Christmas preparations? How do we hold on to a vision of eternity in the midst of the distractions and pressures of our time-bound lives?